What does lampoon mean?
To lampoon a person, institution, or practice is to ridicule it through satire, often by exaggerating its flaws or treating it as absurd. The term commonly appears in discussions of political cartoons, literature, comedy, and performance: writers and performers lampoon governments, celebrities, social conventions, and pretentious institutions. A lampoon may be sharply critical, as in a work that exposes corruption or hypocrisy, but it is also usually designed to amuse. As a noun, a lampoon is a satirical poem, article, sketch, or other work that mocks its subject. The word can suggest a cutting and exaggerated treatment rather than straightforward criticism. It is most natural when the subject of ridicule is explicitly named, although it can also refer broadly to the act of lampooning. In everyday conversation, “mock” or “tease” may serve when the intended tone is gentler.
To satirize or ridicule someone or something, often by exaggerating its features or presenting it as absurd.
"The play lampoons politicians who make elaborate promises but rarely keep them."
Commonly used for mockery expressed through satire, especially in literature, politics, comedy, and visual art.
A satirical work or piece of writing that ridicules a person, group, institution, or custom.
"His witty lampoon of officialdom became one of the year's most widely read poems."
The noun usually denotes an artistic or literary work, though it can also refer more broadly to an act of satirical ridicule.
The plural is formed by adding -s and is used for individual satirical works or acts of ridicule.
"The magazine published several lampoons of prominent public figures."
A lampoon can make a public figure laugh at themselves—especially when it is sharp enough to draw blood.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lampoon come from?
The word entered English in the early 17th century from French, where lampoon was used for a satirical poem or attack. Its earlier history and precise origins are uncertain, and the French word is commonly associated with a Dutch term connected with drinking or carousing, though this derivation is debated. In English, the noun developed for a satirical work, while the verb came to mean to ridicule or satirize someone through such an approach.
Related word forms
How lampoon is actually used
The word is strongly associated with humorous and political satire. It is usually more pointed than “mock” and more literary than “make fun of.”