Mélodrame (en. Melodrama)

/melodʁam/

Meaning & Definition

EnglishFrench
noun
A dramatic work that uses sentimental and exaggerated elements.
The melodrama in cinema often evokes strong emotions in the audience.
Le mélodrame au cinéma évoque souvent des émotions fortes chez le spectateur.
An excessive situation or an exaggerated emotional reaction.
His reaction to the news was a true melodrama.
Sa réaction face à la nouvelle était un vrai mélodrame.
A narrative genre focused on melodramatic elements.
The scenes in this film are filled with melodrama.
Les scènes de ce film sont remplies de mélodrame.

Etymology

From Greek 'melos' (song) and 'drama' (action).

Common Phrases and Expressions

to experience a melodrama
To express intense emotions or create a dramatic scene.
vivre un mélodrame
to make a melodrama
To act excessively to attract attention.
faire du mélodrame
a sentimental and clichéd melodrama
A clichéd and unoriginal sentimental story.
un mélodrame à l'eau de rose

Related Words

drama
A serious or tragic narrative, often in opposition to comedy.
drame
tragedy
A form of drama that involves unfortunate events and a calamitous ending.
tragédie
comedy
A dramatic genre that aims to entertain through laughter.
comédie

Slang Meanings

An excess of emotions mocked or ridiculed.
She always makes a melodrama over nothing.
Elle fait toujours un mélodrame pour un rien.
Dramatic actions to attract attention in a mundane situation.
He turns every small problem into a melodrama.
Il transforme chaque petit problème en mélodrame.