variants
also theatric
1
as in dramatic
given to or marked by attention-getting behavior suggestive of stage acting
after stepping out of their hired limousine, the prom couple made a theatrical entrance in their evening clothes
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in operatic
having the general quality or effect of a stage performance
in a very theatrical voice the actress announced to the gathering that she did not sign autographs
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of theatrical
Chalamet was vital in drumming up the momentum for the original film, which remained a theatrical draw due to rave reviews and stellar word of mouth.
—
Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 8 Feb. 2026
In early 2025, Amazon MGM Studios beat out other studios in paying $40 million for global rights to the film, both theatrical and streaming (the pact also includes additional material that will be seen on Amazon’s Prime Video).
—Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 8 Feb. 2026
Most films rely on post-theatrical windows to generate enough revenue to break even or make a profit.
—Joseph M. Singer, Deadline, 6 Feb. 2026
So this project was more akin to a theatrical work rather than a cinematic one, but with completely off-the-scale numbers, as there will be hundreds of people for each segment of the show.
—Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 6 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for theatrical
Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 8 Feb. 2026
In early 2025, Amazon MGM Studios beat out other studios in paying $40 million for global rights to the film, both theatrical and streaming (the pact also includes additional material that will be seen on Amazon’s Prime Video).
—Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 8 Feb. 2026
Most films rely on post-theatrical windows to generate enough revenue to break even or make a profit.
—Joseph M. Singer, Deadline, 6 Feb. 2026
So this project was more akin to a theatrical work rather than a cinematic one, but with completely off-the-scale numbers, as there will be hundreds of people for each segment of the show.
—Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 6 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for theatrical
Recent Examples of Synonyms for theatrical
Adjective
-
The baker's dozen invited to the event on Wednesday represents a dramatic increase from last season.—
Tony Catalina,
Austin American Statesman,
11 Feb. 2026
-
The growth in connected TV usage proved most dramatic in Indonesia and the Philippines, highlighting how living room viewing on large screens is becoming central to the streaming category’s evolution.—
Naman Ramachandran,
Variety,
11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
The performers paid homage to Italy’s musical traditions, with three great operatic composers, Gioachino Rossini, Giuseppe Verdi, and Giacomo Puccini, appearing on the stage as mascot-like characters.—
Sean Gregory,
Time,
6 Feb. 2026
-
Cecilia Bartoli is a force on any stage, turning every performance into a spectacle with her bold voice and operatic flair.—
Allison DeGrushe,
Entertainment Weekly,
5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
-
Testimony is also likely to include emotional stories from those who were in the school that day.—
Eric Levenson,
CNN Money,
8 Feb. 2026
-
Romero does not have the tactical or emotional discipline required to be an effective captain.—
Jay Harris,
New York Times,
8 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Theatrical.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/theatrical. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
