Satire
/ˈsætaɪər/noun
A genre of literature that uses humor, irony, or ridicule to criticize or mock individuals, society, or politics.
Did you know?The term 'satire' is linked to the ancient Roman 'satura', which was originally a form of ritualistic performance filled with wild, chaotic elements, blending the sacred with the profane.
Etymological Timeline
Latin
Latin
satura
“A mixture, especially of various ingredients, often in a chaotic or wild context.”
1st Century BCE
Latin
satura
“A form of poetic composition that blended humor with criticism, often performed during sacred festivals.”
Middle Ages
Latin
satur
“Used to refer to a dish filled with various foods, metaphorically implying a mix of ideas or themes.”
Renaissance
English
satire
“Adopted from Latin, it began to refer specifically to the literary genre that critiques through humor.”
17th Century
English
satire
“Solidified as a distinct genre in literature, emphasizing social and political critique through wit.”
Modern English
English
satire
“Now understood broadly as any artistic work that employs humor and irony to expose human folly or vice.”