noun

burlesque

buh-LEHSK

noun

A theatrical style that mocks or exaggerates something for comic effect, or (historically) a variety show featuring striptease and comedy.

"The play was a burlesque of political speeches."

"Burlesque shows were especially popular in the early 20th century."

verb

To mock something through exaggerated imitation.

"The sketch burlesqued the president's mannerisms."

How to Use Burlesque

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA comic, exaggerated parody — or historically, a raunchy variety stage show.

Common pairings

burlesque show burlesque dancer

more burlesque comparative, burlesqued past tense, burlesques plural, burlesques singular, most burlesque superlative

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The play was a _____ of political speeches.

Borrowed from French burlesque, from Italian burlesco, meaning "parodic" or "mocking".

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