What does soap mean in drama?

Answer 1

In drama, "soap" refers to a genre known as soap Opera, characterized by its serialized storytelling, melodramatic plots, and focus on interpersonal relationships. Typically aired on television, Soap Operas often feature rich character development and cliffhanger endings to keep viewers engaged. The term "soap" originated from the early sponsorship of these programs by soap manufacturers, who targeted predominantly female audiences. Overall, soap operas prioritize emotional and relational dynamics over action or plot complexity.