burlesque 1 of 2

as in parody
a work that imitates and exaggerates another work for comic effect it is interesting to note that the first novel ever written in English was followed by a burlesque of it

Synonyms & Similar Words

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burlesque

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun burlesque differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of burlesque are caricature, parody, and travesty. While all these words mean "a comic or grotesque imitation," burlesque implies mockery especially through giving a serious or lofty subject a frivolous treatment.

a nightclub burlesque of a trial in court

In what contexts can caricature take the place of burlesque?

The words caricature and burlesque are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, caricature implies ludicrous exaggeration of the characteristic features of a subject.

caricatures of politicians in cartoons

When might parody be a better fit than burlesque?

The synonyms parody and burlesque are sometimes interchangeable, but parody applies especially to treatment of a trivial or ludicrous subject in the exactly imitated style of a well-known author or work.

a witty parody of a popular novel

When is it sensible to use travesty instead of burlesque?

The meanings of travesty and burlesque largely overlap; however, travesty implies that the subject remains unchanged but that the style is extravagant or absurd.

this production is a travesty of the opera

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of burlesque
Noun
On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, the Faena Theater brings contemporary cabaret show Allura to the stage to immerse guests in a universe of bright lights, upbeat music, and compelling burlesque and dance choreography. Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 15 Aug. 2024 In the early 20th century, burlesque and striptease performers began incorporating poles into their routines. Celia Ford, Vox, 10 Aug. 2024
Verb
That song doesn’t belong in a film that promotes the era’s social fragmentation and repeats fatuous antagonisms — burlesqued by Melissa McCarthy playing the sea world’s villainous white-witch octopus Ursula. Armond White, National Review, 26 May 2023 The seeming callousness with which the dancers burlesque a fourteen-year-old’s death—the breezy way that the dance turns a killing into a sight gag—induces a shiver. Jody Rosen, The New Yorker, 7 Dec. 2022 See all Example Sentences for burlesque 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for burlesque
Noun
  • Jacob believed that the capitalization of common nouns was an inorganic import and did away with it, a choice that inspired parodies in the German press.
    Jennifer Wilson, The New Yorker, 4 Nov. 2024
  • Saturday Night Live recap: Host John Mulaney makes grand return with Chappell Roan and surprise guests To start, Kenan Thompson and Ego Nwodim sing a Lion King parody revealing that the carton is filled with possum milk.
    Shania Russell, EW.com, 3 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Previously, he was mocked for showcasing what appeared to be a truly terrible Elden Ring build (see above).
    Paul Tassi, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
  • Russia has sent two prototypes of its latest fighter jet in service, the stealth Su-57, to China for an airshow, where they were reportedly mocked for their poor workmanship and conditions.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Noun
  • Leverage Relevant, Real-World Examples Anchor your phishing spoofs in recent, relevant, real-world examples of similar attacks and the subsequent outcomes.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Salazar's final film project was Eric Rivas' The Brooklyn Premiere, in which the actor reunited with Scarface costar Steven Bauer for a spoof on the crime drama.
    Tommy McArdle, People.com, 24 Oct. 2024
Verb
  • Governed by Neptune, the planet of fantasy and film, Pisces is naturally drawn to iconic characters and cinematic flair, and Nyong’o’s choice proves that life really does imitate art.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 28 Oct. 2024
  • Scammers will also often imitate someone in authority, such as a tax or debt collector.
    Adriana Morga, Los Angeles Times, 27 Oct. 2024
Noun
  • Beloved satire website the Onion bought Alex Jones’s misinformation hub in a bankruptcy auction, the New York Times reports.
    Justin Curto, Vulture, 14 Nov. 2024
  • But Grande does have experience on both the stage and screen, having appeared on Broadway's 13: The Musical and starring on Nickelodeon sitcoms Victorious and Sam & Cat, as well as Adam McKay's sci-fi political satire Don't Look Up.
    Jessica Wang, EW.com, 4 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near burlesque

Cite this Entry

“Burlesque.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/burlesque. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

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