-alis

of, relating to

Forms

-alis
-aris — Latin variant especially used when the stem already contained l, avoiding a repeated l sound.
-al — English ending borrowed through French or directly from Latin.
-ar — English ending continuing Latin -aris.

Origin

An older Latin adjective-forming suffix; its more remote ancestry is uncertain.

Note

Expresses a relationship without specifying its kind: material, place, purpose, and other connections are possible.

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adjective

satirical

suh-TIR-ih-kul/səˈtɪrɪkl/

Using humor, irony, or exaggeration to criticize faults or foolishness.

Her satirical cartoons expose the absurd promises politicians make.

Official uses comically tiny watering can on a giant plastic potted flower while real small plant wilts beside her, humorous misplaced priorities clearly visible; no text or real person reference.

Etymology

satirLatina mixed dish or medley

+icLatinconnected with or characteristic of

+alLatinof, relating to

The base satura moved from a mixed dish to a poetic medley, then to poetry attacking vice and folly. The adjective endings make satirical describe that kind of ridicule-based criticism.

In context

Mariam4:00

Her character is built on three satirical pillars. She's desperate to sound intelligent. She's obsessed with social climbing. And she is a walking, talking hypocrite. Her most famous trait is how she comically misuses words.

The Rivals

More examples

The satirical novel mocks the town's obsession with wealth.
His satirical impression makes the boss's endless speeches sound ridiculous.
The video takes a satirical look at our dependence on phones.

Forms

satirical

satire noun — Humor or ridicule used to criticize faults.

satirically adverb — In a way that humorously criticizes faults.

Similar words

sarcastic: Uses biting irony without necessarily criticizing broader social faults.
mocking: Expresses ridicule but need not expose faults through humor.