satire
UK[ˈsætaɪə(r)]US[ˈsætaɪər]
n
the use of humour, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to expose and criticize people's stupidity or vices, particularly in the context of contemporary politics and other topical issues.
n
a play, novel, film, or other work which uses satire.
Etymology
the english word 'satire' was adopted in the early 16th century from the latin 'satira' or 'satura', which referred to a 'poetic medley'. this latin term itself is thought to derive from the phrase 'lanx satura', meaning a 'full dish' or 'mixed plate', suggesting a diverse assortment. the connection to the modern meaning developed through the roman literary genre 'satura', a form of verse that humorously critiqued human folly and societal norms. thus, the concept evolved from the literal idea of a mixed platter to the figurative one of a literary composition mixing various styles and subjects for the purpose of pointed, often humorous, social commentary.
Analysis
the word 'satire' functions as a single, unsegmentable lexical unit in modern english. it is a loanword from latin.
Examples
the novel is a brilliant satire of corporate culture and greed.
his sharp political satire often gets him into trouble with the establishment.
the film uses satire to question the absurdities of modern life.