noun Uncommon

burlesque

buh-LEHSK

Burlesque (noun) means a theatrical style that mocks or exaggerates something for comic effect, or (historically) a variety show featuring striptease and comedy. Example: “The play was a burlesque of political speeches.”

noun

A theatrical style that mocks or exaggerates something for comic effect, or (historically) a variety show featuring striptease and comedy.

"The play was a burlesque of political speeches."

"Burlesque shows were especially popular in the early 20th century."

verb

To mock something through exaggerated imitation.

"The sketch burlesqued the president's mannerisms."

How to Use Burlesque

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA comic, exaggerated parody — or historically, a raunchy variety stage show.

Common pairings

burlesque show burlesque dancer

Word Forms

more burlesque comparative, burlesqued past tense, burlesques plural, burlesques singular, most burlesque superlative

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The play was a _____ of political speeches.

Etymology

Borrowed from French burlesque, from Italian burlesco, meaning "parodic" or "mocking".

Origin: French

Rhymes for burlesque

rue due sue cue hue Que yue Vue Xue blue true flue

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “burlesque” mean?

The word “burlesque” means a theatrical style that mocks or exaggerates something for comic effect, or (historically) a variety show featuring striptease and comedy. In plain terms, a comic, exaggerated parody — or historically, a raunchy variety stage show.

How do you pronounce “burlesque”?

“Burlesque” is pronounced buh-LEHSK (/bə(ɹ)ˈlɛsk/ in IPA).

How do you use “burlesque” in a sentence?

Here is “burlesque” used in a sentence: “The play was a burlesque of political speeches.”

What part of speech is “burlesque”?

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

Where does the word “burlesque” come from?

The word “burlesque” comes from French. Borrowed from French burlesque, from Italian burlesco, meaning "parodic" or "mocking".

Is “burlesque” a common word?

“Burlesque” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “burlesque” have?

“Burlesque” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a theatrical style that mocks or exaggerates something for comic effect, or (historically) a variety show featuring striptease and comedy.

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Vocabulary lists that include burlesque:

Words With French Origins