What does "theatrical" mean?

1. (related to theatre) relating to the theatre, actors, or stage performances. 2. (exaggerated behaviour) behaving in a way that is too dramatic or intended to attract attention. 3. (amateur performance) a play or show, especially one performed by people who are not professionals. 4. (cinema release) a film that is made to be shown in a cinema rather than just on TV.

How do you use "theatrical"?

Often used in the plural or as a modifier in industry contexts.

theatrical

adj. · n.

US //θiˈætɹɪkəɫ// UK //θiːˈætɹɪkəl// the·atri·cal

1 related to theatre (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Theatre

relating to the theatre, actors, or stage performances.

pertaining to the theatre or to dramatic presentations.

Example

The company is famous for its amazing theatrical costumes and stage designs.

Example

The director's theatrical vision transformed the minimalist script into a grand spectacle that captivated the audience for three hours.
- dramatic
- scenic
- histrionic
2 exaggerated behaviour (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

behaving in a way that is too dramatic or intended to attract attention.

marked by exaggerated self-display or artificiality; histrionic in manner.

Example

He made a theatrical sigh and threw his hands up in the air.

Example

Her theatrical reaction to the minor criticism seemed designed to derail the meeting and draw sympathy from her colleagues.
- melodramatic
- over the top
- affected
- natural
- understated

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3 amateur performance (n.)
C1 Advanced Formal Theatre

a play or show, especially one performed by people who are not professionals.

a dramatic performance, typically one produced by amateur actors or students.

Example

The local village theatricals are always the highlight of the summer festival.

Example

The university's annual theatricals provided a platform for aspiring playwrights to showcase their experimental works to a live audience.
4 cinema release (n.)
C2 Proficiency Technical

a film that is made to be shown in a cinema rather than just on TV.

a motion picture produced specifically for exhibition in commercial cinemas.

Example

The studio decided to give the documentary a full theatrical release before it went to streaming.

Example

Industry analysts noted that while the theatrical performed well in urban centres, its rural distribution was significantly hampered by limited screen availability.

Usage

Often used in the plural or as a modifier in industry contexts.
- feature film
- movie

Origin

From Latin theātricus + -al. By surface analysis, theatre + -ical.