irreverent
Say it: ih-REV-uh-runt /ɪˈrɛv(ə)r(ə)nt/ · adjective
What “irreverent” means
Playfully disrespectful towards things people usually treat very seriously.
More precisely: Showing a playful lack of respect for things usually taken seriously.
Example: “The museum's irreverent social media posts made medieval art go viral.”
When to use it
Use it for humour that cheekily challenges solemn traditions, respected institutions or authority, often with an approving tone.
Similar words
disrespectful, cheeky, impertinent
Quick check
During a grand awards ceremony, the host jokes that the trophy would make an excellent doorstop. Their humour is…
reverent or irreverent?
Show the answer
irreverent
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