The art, technique, and theory of constructing dramatic works and adapting them for performance, including elements like plot, dialogue, and stagecraft.
From German Dramaturgie (1770s), combining Greek drama (action) + -urgia (working, from ergon 'work'). It emerged as German theater scholars developed formal theater criticism.
Dramaturgy is basically the grammar of theater—just like grammar tells you how to arrange words, dramaturgy tells you how to arrange scenes, characters, and reveals to make an audience feel exactly what you want. Every great director understands it, even if they don't know the word.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.