What does parody mean?
A parody is an imitation of a person, work, style, or set of conventions that is deliberately recognizable and often exaggerated for comic, satirical, or critical purposes. The word can describe both the resulting work and the act of creating it. A literary parody might imitate the structure and language of a familiar novel, while a comic parody might exaggerate the mannerisms of a public figure. Parody is not merely any resemblance or imitation: the imitation is usually deliberate, and its purpose may be humorous, critical, or both. The term is common in discussion of literature, film, comedy, theatre, and visual art. Because parody depends on an audience recognizing what is being imitated, it often relies on the distinctive features of its source, while changing or exaggerating them to create a new effect.
An imitation of a work, style, person, or set of conventions that is humorous, satirical, critical, or deliberately exaggerated.
"The film is an affectionate parody of classic Westerns."
A parody usually retains enough features of its original to be recognizable.
To imitate or satirize a person, work, style, or set of conventions in a deliberately exaggerated manner.
"The magazine regularly parodies politicians and their campaign speeches."
The verb can imply comic, critical, or broadly imitative intent.
The plural is used for individual parodies or instances of the form.
"The collection contains several clever parodies of famous speeches."
The word comes from Greek elements meaning “alongside” and “song,” reflecting its origin as a song sung beside another.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does parody come from?
The word comes through Latin from Greek parōidia, a term associated with singing a song alongside or in imitation of another. Its Greek elements combine para-, meaning “beside” or “alongside,” with aōidē, meaning “song.” The word entered English through French in the 16th century and originally referred to comic or satirical imitation, especially of poetic works.
Related word forms
How parody is actually used
Parody usually involves recognizable imitation and commonly has a comic or satirical purpose, although it may also be used more broadly for imitation that exaggerates the original. In literary contexts, it can refer to a work that imitates the form or conventions of another genre without necessarily mocking it.