parody
UK[ˈpærədi]US[ˈpærədi]
n
a piece of writing, music, acting, etc. that deliberately copies the style of someone or something in order to be amusing
v
to copy the style of someone or something in an amusing way
Morpheme Breakdown
par
ody
par
beside
ody
song
Etymology
the word 'parody' originates from the greek 'parōidia', a compound of 'para-' (beside) and 'ōidē' (song, ode). it literally meant 'a song sung beside' another, implying a parallel or derivative composition. in ancient greek literature, it specifically referred to a narrative poem that imitated the style of an epic for humorous or satirical effect. this core concept of humorous imitation alongside an original work traveled through latin 'parodia' into english in the late 16th century, retaining its essential meaning of a deliberate, comic stylistic copy.
Analysis
Structure: par (beside) + ody (song)
par- (from greek para-, meaning 'beside, alongside'). ody (from greek ōidē, meaning 'song').
Examples
the film is a brilliant parody of hollywood action movies.
he was famous for his ability to parody the president's speaking style perfectly.
the show often includes parodies of popular television commercials.