rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryburlesqueComic imitation
noun / adjective / verb

burlesque

ber-LESK/bɜːrˈlesk/

An exaggerated imitation that makes fun of its subject.

The performer presents a burlesque of royalty with an enormous crown and toy scepter.

A stage performer parodies royal grandeur with an absurdly oversized crown, a sweeping theatrical bow, and a tiny toy scepter; a visible audience member laughs at the exaggerated performance.
Etymology
burlItalianjoke, mockery
+esqueFrenchin the manner of

Burla and -esque suggest treatment in a joking or mocking manner. The performance sense grows from grotesque parody, especially humor created by a ludicrous contrast between a subject and the way it is presented.

In context

Weird Medieval Guys25:02
basically turns law into like a burlesque show um but yeah
Medieval Welsh bards

More examples

  • Her burlesque speech exaggerated the mayor's grand gestures.
  • The sketch burlesqued a famous scene from the opera.
  • The revue combined burlesque comedy with dance performances.

Forms

burlesque · burlesques · burlesqued · burlesquing

Similar words

parody
A broad term for comic imitation, while burlesque often stresses extravagant contrast.