parody

The word “parody” means a piece of writing, music, or performance that imitates something else for comic or mocking effect. In plain terms, a funny imitation of something, made to poke fun at it.

“Parody” is pronounced PA-ruh-dee (/ˈpæɹədi/ in IPA).

Here is “parody” used in a sentence: “The sketch was a parody of a well-known singing competition.”

Depending on how it is used, “parody” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “parody” comes from Greek. From Greek parōidia, from para- ("beside") + ōidē ("song") — literally a "counter-song.".

“Parody” is an uncommon word in modern English.

“Parody” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a piece of writing, music, or performance that imitates something else for comic or mocking effect.

Parody imitates a specific work, style, or person for comic or mocking effect, closely mimicking its form. Satire is broader, using humour, irony, or exaggeration to criticize behaviour, institutions, or society generally, and does not need to imitate a specific source.

In many countries, parody is protected under fair use or fair dealing exceptions to copyright law because it transforms the original work for comic or critical purposes. However, the exact legal protection varies by jurisdiction and depends on how the parody is created and used.

Parody and spoof are closely related and often used interchangeably, both describing an imitation created for comic or mocking effect. Spoof tends to be a more informal, lighter term, while parody is used in both casual and more formal or critical contexts.