Melodrama is a dramatic work that is characterized by sensationalized events, plot, and characters that are designed to elicit strong emotional reactions from the audience. It is a genre that focuses on exaggerated plots rather than characterization, and characters are often given stereotypical roles. Melodramas are most recognizable in theatre, and in modern times, on television and in films. The term "melodrama" originated from a combination of the Greek word "melos" meaning "melody" or "song" and the French word "drame" meaning "drama". In the 18th century, melodrama was a technique of combining spoken recitation with short pieces of accompanying music.

Some key features of melodrama include:

• Exaggerated conflicts and events that are designed to elicit emotional responses in the audience.
• Stereotypical characters that are often assigned simple roles.
• A simple plot that relies on exaggerated actions and events unfolding to convey powerful but somewhat basic themes.

In modern contexts, the term "melodrama" is generally pejorative, as it suggests that the work in question lacks subtlety, character development, or both.