Meanings
Its earliest reference is listed in the Random House Historical Dictionary of American Slang as being used by Mary Hallock Foote in Coeur D'Alene in 1894.[1]
How to pronounce "chew the scenery":
AU
To display excessive emotion or to act in an exaggerated manner while performing; to be melodramatic; to be flamboyant.
Example Sentences
1
The actor couldn't help but chew the scenery with his over-the-top performance.
2
The comedian had everyone laughing with his hilarious ability to chew the scenery.
3
He was criticized for his tendency to chew the scenery and overshadow his co-stars.
4
The veteran actress advised the young performers to focus on their characters and not chew the scenery.
5
The audience loved the actor's energy and enthusiasm, even if he tended to chew the scenery occasionally.
