Drama queen: meaning, definitions and examples

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drama queen

 

[ ˈdrɑː.mə kwiːn ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

personality trait

A person who tends to react to situations in an overly dramatic or exaggerated manner, seeking attention and sympathy from others.

Synonyms

attention seeker, exaggerator, melodramatic person.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drama queen

Use this term for someone who often overreacts or exaggerates emotional responses to situations. It typically has a negative connotation.

  • She always makes a big scene about the smallest issues; she's such a drama queen.
  • Don't be a drama queen; it's just a minor problem, not the end of the world.
exaggerator

This term is used for someone who habitually makes things seem larger or more significant than they are. It can be neutral or mildly negative depending on the context.

  • You can't believe everything he says; he's such an exaggerator.
  • She's an exaggerator; she said there were a hundred people at the party when there were only fifty.
melodramatic person

This describes someone who is excessively emotional or dramatic in their behavior or speech. It carries a negative connotation and suggests over-the-top reactions.

  • She burst into tears and started shouting dramatically; she's a very melodramatic person.
  • His melodramatic reaction to the news was unnecessary and a bit over the top.
attention seeker

This is applied to individuals who constantly seek approval and recognition from others, often by engaging in behaviors designed to attract attention. It carries a negative connotation.

  • He's always posting provocative statements online; he's a real attention seeker.
  • Her elaborate stories are usually just a ploy to gain attention; she's quite the attention seeker.

Examples of usage

  • She's such a drama queen, always making a big deal out of small issues.
  • Stop being a drama queen and deal with the problem like an adult.
Context #2 | Noun

performing arts

A female actor who specializes in playing dramatic or emotionally intense roles.

Synonyms

actress, dramatic actor, leading lady.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
drama queen

Use to describe someone who overreacts or exaggerates emotions or situations. It has a negative connotation.

  • Stop being such a drama queen; it's just a little scratch.
  • Every little problem makes her act like a drama queen.
actress

Use to describe a female performer in movies, TV shows, or theater.

  • The actress received an award for her role in the film.
  • She has always dreamed of becoming a famous actress.
dramatic actor

Use to describe an actor, regardless of gender, who is skilled in performing serious and emotional roles.

  • He is known as a dramatic actor for his powerful performances.
  • The dramatic actor captivated the audience with his intensity.
leading lady

Use to describe the main female character in a film, play, or TV show. Often implies a significant and important role.

  • She was cast as the leading lady in the new blockbuster movie.
  • The leading lady of the show stole the hearts of the viewers.

Examples of usage

  • She's a talented drama queen, known for her powerful performances on stage.
  • The theater company is looking for a new drama queen for their upcoming production.

Translations

Translations of the word "drama queen" in other languages:

🇵🇹 rainha do drama

🇮🇳 नाटक की रानी

🇩🇪 Dramaqueen

🇮🇩 drama queen

🇺🇦 королева драми

🇵🇱 królowa dramatu

🇯🇵 ドラマクイーン

🇫🇷 drama queen

🇪🇸 reina del drama

🇹🇷 drama kraliçesi

🇰🇷 드라마 퀸

🇸🇦 ملكة الدراما

🇨🇿 královna dramatu

🇸🇰 kráľovná drámy

🇨🇳 戏剧女王

🇸🇮 kraljica drame

🇮🇸 dramakona

🇰🇿 драма ханшайымы

🇬🇪 დრამის დედოფალი

🇦🇿 drama kraliçası

🇲🇽 reina del drama

Etymology

The term 'drama queen' originated in the late 20th century and is often used informally to describe someone who tends to overreact or seek attention in a dramatic way. It can also refer to a female actor who excels in dramatic roles on stage or screen. The phrase combines 'drama', relating to theatrical performances, with 'queen', a term used to signify eminence or superiority. Over time, 'drama queen' has become a commonly used expression in both casual and professional contexts.