parody
PAIR-uh-dee
/ˈpær.ə.di/
An imitation of the style of a particular writer, artist, or genre with deliberate exaggeration for comic effect.
Focuses on mimicking the form, style, or stylistic mannerisms of a specific work or creator, unlike satire which targets broader societal issues.
The story behind the word. Derived from Ancient Greek 'para-' (alongside or counter) combined with 'oidē' (song). In classical Greek theater, a 'parōidia' was a poem recited alongside a serious heroic epic, adopting its elevated meter and structure to tell trivial or absurd stories for comic relief.
Word relationships
- caricature: A 'caricature' exaggerates visual or personal traits, while 'parody' mimics an entire artistic style or narrative format.
- spoof: 'Spoof' is a more informal term for a humorous imitation, often lighter in tone.
- original: An original creation does not copy or mimic the structural style of a preceding work.
Commonly confused with
- pastiche: A 'pastiche' mimics a style to honor or celebrate it; a 'parody' mimics a style to achieve comic effect or mockery.
Word family
- parodist (noun): A person who writes or performs parodies.
- parodic (adjective): Having the nature of a parody.
Collocations
- parody account
- parody song
- pastiche and parody
- affectionate parody
Example sentences
- "The movie is an affectionate parody of classic 1950s science fiction thrillers, copying their grainy film stock and melodramatic score." Film Studies
- "Under fair use doctrine, a parody must transform the original work by commenting directly on its distinctive style or content." Copyright Law
Memory hook
PAIR of songs: one real, one funny mirror image. Copying the style for a laugh.
When not to use
Do not use when describing general criticism that does not mimic an existing style or artistic subject.
Fun facts
- In US copyright law, parody is uniquely protected under Fair Use because it must invoke the original work to make its humorous point, unlike satire which can make its point without copying a specific copyrighted work.
Also appears in
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