parody
Say it: PA-ruh-dee /ˈparədi/ · noun
What “parody” means
Copying something's style and exaggerating it to make people laugh.
More precisely: An imitation of a style, person or work, exaggerated for comic effect.
Example: “His parody of startup pitch videos was so accurate that two investors asked for a call.”
When to use it
Use it for a comic imitation that exaggerates the recognisable habits of a particular work, person or style.
Similar words
spoof, send-up, lampoon
Where it comes from
From Greek parōidia, 'burlesque poem', from para- 'beside' + ōidē 'ode'.
Quick check
A video copies a cooking show's dramatic style but spends ten minutes solemnly explaining how to butter toast. It's…
a parody or a tutorial?
Show the answer
a parody
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