satire
SAT-eyeur
/ˈsæt.aɪər/
The use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in politics and topical issues.
Satire always has a moral or corrective purpose, using laughter as a weapon to critique societal flaws.
The story behind the word. From Latin 'lanx satura', meaning a 'full dish filled with various kinds of fruits'. Romans applied this metaphorically to poetic poetic miscellanies filled with varied topics and social commentary. It became associated with Greek 'satyrs' in popular misconception, but its true origin is a mixed fruit plate!
Word relationships
- parody: Parody imitates a style for comedic effect; satire uses humor specifically to critique foolishness or power.
- lampoon: A lampoon is a harsh, personal satirical attack directed at an individual.
- panegyric: A panegyric is a speech or text expressing high praise, opposite to satirical criticism.
- tribute: A tribute honors someone with admiration rather than ridiculing them.
Commonly confused with
- sartorial: 'Sartorial' relates to clothing or tailoring, while 'satire' relates to literary ridicule.
Word family
- satirical (adjective): Containing or using satire.
- satirist (noun): A writer or actor who uses satire.
- satirize (verb): To mock or criticize using satire.
Collocations
- biting satire
- political satire
- social satire
- sharp satire
Example sentences
- "Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal is a masterpiece of political satire." Literature
- "The television show uses sharp satire to expose media hypocrisy during elections." Modern Media
Memory hook
SATIRE exposes SILLY and SAD TIRE-some social behavior. Satire exposes social stupidity.
When not to use
Do not confuse satire with silly or lighthearted parody that has no underlying social critique.
Fun facts
- People often mistakenly think 'satire' comes from Greek 'satyrs' (mythological goat-men), but its true root is Latin 'satura' (a full salad bowl).
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