First Known Use: 1515
Dictionary
drama
noun dra·ma \ˈdrä-mə, ˈdra-\
: a piece of writing that tells a story and is performed on a stage
: a play, movie, television show, or radio show that is about a serious subject and is not meant to make the audience laugh
: the art or activity of performing a role in a play, show, etc.
Full Definition of DRAMA
1
a : a composition in verse or prose intended to portray life or character or to tell a story usually involving conflicts and emotions through action and dialogue and typically designed for theatrical performance : play — compare closet drama b : a movie or television production with characteristics (as conflict) of a serious play; broadly : a play, movie, or television production with a serious tone or subject <a police drama>
2
: dramatic art, literature, or affairs
3
a : a state, situation, or series of events involving interesting or intense conflict of forces b : dramatic state, effect, or quality <the drama of the courtroom proceedings>
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Origin of DRAMA
Late Latin dramat-, drama, from Greek, deed, drama, from dran to do, act
Other Performing Arts Terms
DRAMA Defined for Kids
drama
noun dra·ma \ˈdrä-mə, ˈdra-\
Definition of DRAMA for Kids
1
: a written work that tells a story through action and speech and is acted out : a usually serious play, movie, or television production
2
: the art or profession of creating or putting on plays
3
: an exciting or emotional situation or event <Reporters told of the drama occurring in the courtroom.>
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