Hudibrastic, referring to a type of satire, is spelled with the phonetic transcription /hjuːdɪˈbræstɪk/. The first syllable is pronounced "hew" as in "hew-ge". The second syllable is pronounced "di" as in "dig". The third syllable is pronounced "bra" as in "bra-zen". The final syllable is pronounced "stic" as in "stick". This spelling may seem intimidating, but with practice and familiarity with phonetic transcriptions, it becomes easier to pronounce and recognize new words.
Hudibrastic is an adjective that originates from the literary character, Sir Hudibras, in Samuel Butler's mock-heroic poem "Hudibras," published in 1663. In literature, the term "Hudibrastic" refers to a satirical or burlesque style of writing in which language and form are used to mock or ridicule something or someone.
When used to describe a literary work, the term "Hudibrastic" indicates that the writing style is characterized by humor, irony, and wit, often employed to parody or deflate the serious and lofty themes of traditional heroic epics or romantic literature. This style often takes the form of exaggerated and absurd language, wordplay, and clever rhyming couplets to highlight the ridiculousness or incongruity of the subject matter.
The Hudibrastic style is marked by its satire, employing sharp criticism and mockery to expose societal or individual flaws. The use of irony and wit sets it apart from straightforward humor, as it often uses clever wordplay and incongruous situations to create laughter and challenge conventional ideas.
The term "Hudibrastic" can also be used more broadly to refer to any form of humor, poetry, or prose that employs a similar satirical or burlesque style. The aim of such writing is typically to entertain and amuse the reader while also exposing the hypocrisies, follies, or absurdities of its subject matter.
Similar to the style of the poem of Hudibras; doggerel.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Hudibrastic" is derived from the name "Hudibras", which originated from a satirical poem called "Hudibras" written by Samuel Butler. The poem was published in the late 17th century and became immensely popular. The main character of the poem, Sir Hudibras, is a satirical portrayal of a Puritan knight. Sir Hudibras is depicted as hypocritical, pretentious, and foolish.
Due to the popularity and influence of the poem, the term "Hudibrastic" emerged to describe a specific type of satirical verse or style of writing that employs double entendre, irony, and wit to mock certain social or political behaviors or beliefs. This term is often used to describe works that emulate or imitate the satirical and sarcastic tone of Samuel Butler's poem.