# operatic

/ˌɑpɝˈætɪk/ (US) · /ˌɒpəɹˈætɪk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/operatic
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

describing something that is very dramatic, emotional, or large in scale. You use this to compare a situation to a grand opera.

For teachers: characterised by dramatic intensity, emotional depth, or grand scale. Often used figuratively to describe events or performances that evoke the exaggerated style of opera.

## Examples

- The singer's voice was truly operatic.
- The argument between the two neighbors became so operatic that the entire street gathered to watch.
- The film's score is operatic in its scope, using sweeping orchestral movements to mirror the protagonist's internal struggle for redemption.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.