noun
- (used with a singular verb) the art of staging plays and other stage performances.
- (used with a plural verb) exaggerated, artificial, or histrionic mannerisms, actions, or words.
noun (functioning as singular)
- the art of staging plays
- exaggerated mannerisms or displays of emotions
n.1807, “matters pertaining to the stage,” from theater; also see -ics. Meaning “theatrical behavior” is attested from 1929, American English.