satire
4 synonyms and 0 antonyms for satire, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A form of writing, art, or performance that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize people, institutions, or society.
Synonyms
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use satire
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin satira, originally referring to a mixed, varied composition; the spelling later shifted under the mistaken belief it was connected to the Greek "satyr," though the two words are historically unrelated.
Full origin of satire →Frequently asked questions
What does “satire” mean?
The word “satire” means a form of writing, art, or performance that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize people, institutions, or society. In plain terms, using humor or exaggeration to mock and criticize something, usually to make a point.
How do you pronounce “satire”?
“Satire” is pronounced SA-teye-uh (/ˈsætaɪɹ/ in IPA).
How do you use “satire” in a sentence?
Here is “satire” used in a sentence: “The show is a satire of modern political life.”
What part of speech is “satire”?
“Satire” is a noun.
Where does the word “satire” come from?
The word “satire” comes from Latin. From Latin satira, originally referring to a mixed, varied composition; the spelling later shifted under the mistaken belief it was connected to the Greek "satyr," though the two words are historically unrelated.
Is “satire” a common word?
“Satire” is an uncommon word in modern English.
What is the difference between satire and parody?
Satire is a broad form of writing, art, or performance that uses humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize people, institutions, or society, while parody specifically imitates the style of a particular work, genre, or person for comic or critical effect. Parody can be a technique used within satire, but satire's goal is social or political critique rather than imitation alone.
What is the difference between satire and sarcasm?
Satire is typically a longer, crafted piece of writing, art, or performance aimed at criticizing society or institutions through humor and irony, while sarcasm is a sharp, mocking remark made in speech or writing, usually aimed at an individual in the moment. Satire is a genre; sarcasm is a rhetorical device.
What techniques does satire commonly use?
Satire commonly relies on humor, irony, and exaggeration to expose flaws in people, institutions, or society. These techniques let the satirist criticize a target indirectly, often making the critique more memorable or pointed than a straightforward statement would be.