Satire
noun /ˈsæt.aɪər/ — The use of humour or irony to expose and criticise folly
Definition
A literary form that uses wit, irony, and exaggeration to expose and mock the vices, absurdities, or follies of individuals, institutions, or society.
Beyond the definition
The art of saying the unsayable by making it funny. Satire lets critique travel where direct argument cannot — under cover of laughter.
Origin & history
From Latin 'satira' (a medley, a poetic mixture) — originally a dish of mixed fruits. Roman satirists like Juvenal and Horace used it to skewer their society.
Example sentences
Illustrative sentences for learning, not verified community posts or sourced quotations.
Swift's satire was so precise that readers initially took 'A Modest Proposal' literally.
Good satire makes you laugh first, then makes you feel slightly ashamed for laughing.
Satire is the tool of those who cannot speak directly and must therefore speak brilliantly.
How to use it
This entry uses a noun. Follow the examples for articles and singular or plural forms; not every noun takes “a” or “an.”
Choose “Satire” when the meaning fits your context: A literary form that uses wit, irony, and exaggeration to expose and mock the vices, absurdities, or follies of individuals, institutions, or society.
Synonyms
Antonyms
earnestness, sincerity, praise
Related words
Questions about this word
What does "Satire" mean?
Satire is noun meaning: The use of humour or irony to expose and criticise folly. A literary form that uses wit, irony, and exaggeration to expose and mock the vices, absurdities, or follies of individuals, institutions, or society.
Where does the word "Satire" come from?
From Latin 'satira' (a medley, a poetic mixture) — originally a dish of mixed fruits. Roman satirists like Juvenal and Horace used it to skewer their society.