satire

Pronunciation: /ˈsætaɪər/ (American English)

Origin: From Latin "satira," meaning "medley" or "dish of mixed fruits," later used to describe a poetic form of criticism.

Part of Speech: noun

Meanings:

1. The use of humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to criticize and expose human vices, follies, or shortcomings, particularly in contemporary politics and other topical issues.
2. A literary work or genre that employs satire.

Example Sentences:

1. The political cartoon was a biting satire of the current administration's policies.
2. "A Modest Proposal" by Jonathan Swift is a classic example of satire in literature.
3. The TV show uses satire to comment on social media addiction.

Related Words:

• Verb: satirize
• Adjective: satirical, satiric
• Noun: satirist (a person who writes satire)
• Synonyms: parody, mockery, caricature, lampoon, burlesque

Memorization Trick: Think of "SAT-tire" - imagine a tire with the letters "SAT" written on it, rolling over and flattening societal issues, making them look ridiculous. This image combines the sound of the word with its function of criticizing or mocking.