drama
- 1A story that actors perform in a theater or on TV, radio, or film, usually a serious one.
Like a story you watch that pulls you in with real feelings instead of jokes.
We watched a gripping drama about a family in crisis.
The new police drama starts on television next week.
UsageOften after a word for its type: a police drama, a family drama.
- 2Pointless arguing, gossip, or big emotional reactions that make a problem worse than it needs to be.
Like a small spark someone keeps blowing on until it becomes a big fire.
I'm tired of all the drama at work this month.
She left the group chat to get away from the drama.
UsageWe say too much drama or stir up drama. Calling something drama can sound unkind.
Similartrouble, fuss, histrionics, theatrics
Note
- 3Plays that are written to be acted out, thought of as one kind of art.
Like music or painting, but the art is telling stories on a stage.
She studied drama in college and now teaches acting.
The school offers classes in music, dance, and drama.
UsageSay study drama (no a) for the art. A drama is one play or show.
Similartheater
- 4Something that happens in real life and is as exciting or full of feeling as a play or a movie.
The lost hikers were found after a long night of drama on the mountain.
Election night was full of drama as the lead kept changing.
UsageWe often say a drama unfolds, or that something is full of drama.
Similarexcitement, suspense, tension, spectacle, turmoil
Note
Practice
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Origin
From Ancient Greek 'drama', meaning a play or act, from a word meaning 'to act' or 'to do'.
Checked 6 Nov 2026 · 3 facts
- English drama derives from Ancient Greek drâma. en.wiktionary.org
- Ancient Greek drâma means a play or act. en.wiktionary.org
- The Greek noun derives from a verb meaning to act or to do. en.wikipedia.org