What does lampoon mean Meaning and Definition
What does lampoon mean
Pronunciation
/læmˈpuːn/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A form of satire or irony that ridicules or mocks a person, idea, or institution, often through exaggeration or ridicule.
Examples
- The comedian’s lampoon of the politician’s policies had the audience in stitches.
- The satirical magazine is known for its lampoon of current events.
Synonyms
- Satire
- Parody
Antonyms
- Seriousness
- Flattery
Additional Information
Lampooning is a way of using humor to critique or comment on social issues, politics, or cultural phenomena. It often involves irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to make a point or highlight absurdity.
Lampooning can be found in various forms of media, including literature, film, television, and online content. It requires a delicate balance between humor and offense, as it can be used to challenge societal norms or critique authority figures.
Etymology
The word “lampoon” originated in the 17th century from the French word “lampooner,” meaning to mock or ridicule.
Usage Notes
Lampoon should be used carefully, as it can be perceived as offensive or disrespectful. It is essential to consider the audience and context when using lampooning as a form of satire.
Cultural References
Lampooning has been used in popular culture to critique societal norms, politics, and cultural phenomena. Examples include Saturday Night Live’s political satire and The Onion’s news parody.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- Lampoon someone or something
- Be lampooned
Related Words or Phrases
- Satire
- Parody
- Irony
Collocations
- Lampoon a politician
- Lampoon a social issue
Frequency of Use
Lampoon is a moderately used word in modern language, often employed in literary, journalistic, and comedic contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Lampooned
- Lampune