dramatize

verb

dra·​ma·​tize ˈdra-mə-ˌtīz  ˈdrä- 

dramatized; dramatizing

transitive verb

1

: to adapt (something, such as a novel) for theatrical presentation

2

: to present or represent in a dramatic manner

intransitive verb

1

: to be suitable for dramatization

2

: to behave dramatically

dramatizable

ˈdra-mə-ˌtī-zə-bəl 

ˈdrä-

adjective

Examples of dramatize in a Sentence

The movie dramatizes her early life.

The book is dramatized in a new play.

I know I tend to dramatize things but it really was awful.

She cited a series of statistics to dramatize the seriousness of the problem.

This tragedy dramatizes the need for improvements in highway safety.

Recent Examples on the Web

Resist the temptation to dramatize the details out of proportion and look at it in the context of the bigger picture of your life. —Sandy Thibault, Twin Cities, 7 Feb. 2025

One of the contract stipulations required MJ, and his estate by extension, to not dramatize the Chandlers in any capacity—including a potential biopic. —Marc Griffin, VIBE.com, 24 Jan. 2025

The developments have drawn stark opposition from local residents and conservation groups, who conducted a media tour two weeks ago to dramatize the potential danger. —Natalia Jaramillo, Orlando Sentinel, 24 Jan. 2025

The film follows Epstein's life and career and dramatizes the group's arrival in the United States in 1964 to perform on The Ed Sullivan Show. —Tommy McArdle, People.com, 31 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

dramat-, stem in derivation of drama + -ize

First Known Use

1783, in the meaning defined at transitive sense 1

Kids Definition

dramatize

verb

dram·​a·​tize

ˈdram-ə-ˌtīz,

ˈdräm-

1

: to make into a drama

2

: to present or represent in a dramatic manner

dramatization

ˌdram-ət-ə-ˈzā-shən

ˌdräm-

noun