soap opera

[op-er-uh, op-ruh]

noun

1. a radio or television series depicting the interconnected lives of many characters often in a sentimental, melodramatic way.

soap opera

noun

1. a serialized drama, usually dealing with domestic themes and characterized by sentimentality, broadcast on radio or television

Word History and Origins

Origin of soap opera¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40; so called because soap manufacturers were among the original sponsors of such programs

Word History and Origins

Origin of soap opera¹

C20: so called because manufacturers of soap were typical sponsors

Idioms and Phrases

A radio or television serial with stock characters in domestic dramas that are noted for being sentimental and melodramatic. For example, She just watches soap operas all day long . This term originated in the mid-1930s and was so called because the sponsors of the earliest such radio shows were often soap manufacturers.

Real-life situation resembling one that might occur in a soap opera, as in She just goes on and on about her various medical and family problems, one long soap opera . [1940s]

Example Sentences

It is a story line with a certain soap opera appeal.

From BBC

Actor Paul Usher is to reprise his role as one of soap opera's great villains, Barry Grant, as part of Brookside's one-off return to television.

From BBC

I saw others with treasure maps, and only caught murmurs of the romantic soap operas unfolding among the crew.

From Los Angeles Times

In truth, the Cowboys have been a sporting soap opera ever since Jones bought the team in 1989 - just the way he likes it.

From BBC

Rogers’ signature commanding voice and poised bravado made Scorpio a fan favorite on the long-running soap opera, and became his most recognizable role.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• melodrama 
• serial 
• soap