Burlesque

Quick meaning: Burlesque is an adjective meaning A derisive art form that mocks by imitation; a parody.

Meaning

A derisive art form that mocks by imitation; a parody.

More Meanings

1. A variety adult entertainment show, usually including titillation such as striptease, most common from the 1880s to the 1930s.
2. A ludicrous imitation; a caricature; a travesty; a gross perversion.
3. To make a burlesque parody of.
4. To ridicule, or to make ludicrous by grotesque representation in action or in language.
5. (dated) Parodical; parodic

Example Sentences

Podunk. A term applied to an imaginary place in burlesque writing or speaking.

The dull burlesque appeared with impudence, / And pleased by novelty in spite of sense.

They burlesqued the prophet Jeremiah's words, and turned the expression he used into ridicule.

It is a dispute among the critics, whether burlesque poetry runs best in heroic verse, like that of the Dispensary, or in doggerel, like that of Hudibras.

Word Forms

• burlesk
• burlesques
• burlesquing
• burlesqued

Synonyms for burlesque

Depending on context, synonyms include lampoon, travesty, imitation, caricature, charade, pasquinade.

Related Words

Related dictionary entries include parody, sendup, spoof, travesty, pasquinade, lampoon.

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