Langimage
English

satire

|sat/ire|

C1

🇺🇸

/ˈsætaɪər/

🇬🇧

/ˈsætaɪə/

literary ridicule

Etymology
Etymology Information

'satire' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'satira,' where 'satura' meant 'medley' or 'mixture.'

Historical Evolution

'satira' transformed into the Old French word 'satyre,' and eventually became the modern English word 'satire' through Middle English.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a poetic medley,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'literary ridicule.'

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a literary work that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock human vices or foolishness.

Jonathan Swift's 'A Modest Proposal' is a famous example of satire.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41