Cabotinage

/ˌkæbətɪˈnɑːʒ/ noun

Definition

Theatrical overacting, exhibitionism, or the practice of seeking attention through exaggerated behavior; cheap showiness.

Etymology

From French cabotinage (cabotinage), formed from cabotin plus suffix '-age' (denoting practice or action). Refers to the characteristic behavior of cabotins.

Kelly Says

This French word perfectly captures the theatrical world's disdain for over-the-top acting—it's not acting, it's cabotinage, a whole different (and inferior) art form!

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