View synonyms for

soap opera

[ op-er-uh, op-ruh ]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

a radio or television series depicting the interconnected lives of many characters often in a sentimental, melodramatic way.

soap opera

noun

a serialized drama, usually dealing with domestic themes and characterized by sentimentality, broadcast on radio or television

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Word History and Origins

Origin of soap opera¹

An Americanism dating back to 1935–40; so called because soap manufacturers were among the original sponsors of such programs

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Word History and Origins

Origin of soap opera¹

C20: so called because manufacturers of soap were typical sponsors

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

His arrival for his son's bout with Conor Benn on Saturday night was a scene worthy of any soap opera plot twist.

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Scotland's creative industries will suffer a "massive blow" unless the BBC reverses a decision to cancel soap opera River City, stars of the show have claimed.

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While this event is often billed as a showpiece on par with cup finals, there is one big difference - tomorrow, WWE will continue on with the next chapter of its never-ending soap opera.

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He also had a recurring role in “All That Glitters,” a groundbreaking soap opera parody created by Norman Lear.

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After securing representation from that production, she started going out for acting roles, including the soap opera “One Life to Live.”

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Related Words

soapolallie soap pad

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