HISTIONIC Meaning and
Definition
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The term "histionic" is an adjective that refers to an exaggerated and dramatic behavior or display of emotions typically done to attract attention or manipulate others. It can also be used to describe a person who tends to be overly theatrical or melodramatic in their actions, speech, or gestures. The origin of this word can be traced back to the Greek word "histrio," which means actor.
In psychological terms, "histionic" is associated with histrionic personality disorder, a mental health condition characterized by a pervasive pattern of seeking attention and excessive emotions. Individuals with this disorder often display attention-seeking behavior and exaggerated emotions in order to maintain the center stage, even in ordinary situations. They may use excessive physical gestures, speak dramatically, and constantly seek reassurance and affirmation from others.
Outside of psychology, "histionic" can also describe performances or dramatic works that are noticeably exaggerated, overly theatrical, or melodramatic. It can be used to critique acting styles that are deemed artificial or lacking authenticity. In this context, "histionic" may refer to performances that prioritize grand gestures, showy expressions, or exaggerated vocal delivery over a more nuanced or naturalistic approach.
Overall, "histionic" is an adjective describing exaggerated behavior, emotions, or performances that are designed to draw attention and captivate an audience. It conveys a sense of artificiality, melodrama, and theatrics.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HISTIONIC
- hystrionic
- histrionic
- gistionic
- bistionic
- nistionic
- jistionic
- uistionic
- yistionic
- hustionic
- hjstionic
- hkstionic
- hostionic
- h9stionic
- h8stionic
- hiationic
- hiztionic
- hixtionic
- hidtionic
- hietionic
- hiwtionic
Etymology of HISTIONIC
The word "histionic" originates from the Latin term "histrionicus", which is derived from "histriones", meaning "actor" or "stage player". In ancient Rome, "histriones" referred to actors who performed in theatrical productions. Over time, the term evolved to refer to theatrical or dramatic behavior, and today "histionic" describes someone who excessively displays emotion or acts in an exaggerated manner for attention.
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