- Today's Word
Histrionic
hiss-tree-ON-ik
Definition
(adjective) Overly dramatic or emotional in behavior or speech; exaggerated for effect.
Example
Her reaction to the minor inconvenience was so histrionic that everyone nearby stopped to stare.
Word Origin
Histrionic comes from the Latin histrio, meaning “actor,” and originally referred to stage performance. Over time, the meaning expanded to describe behavior that resembles theatrical acting—exaggerated, emotional, and designed to draw attention.
Fun Fact
Psychologists note that histrionic behavior can sometimes emerge in high-pressure environments, like competitive arts, sports, or politics, where expressive displays grab attention quickly. Studies in communication science show that dramatic gestures and heightened emotion can make messages seem more memorable — but also less trustworthy when overused.