The word "parody" is a noun that refers to a comedic imitation or mockery of something serious. Its correct spelling is pəˈrɒdi (IPA phonetic transcription), with the stress on the second syllable. The "a" in the first syllable is pronounced like the "a" sound in the word "cat," while the "o" in the second syllable is pronounced like the "o" sound in the word "not." The "y" at the end of the word is pronounced like the "i" sound in the word "fly."
Parody is a form of creative expression that imitates or mocks another work, typically a literary or artistic piece, in a satirical and humorous manner. It is characterized by the deliberate exaggeration or imitation of the style, tone, content, or elements of the original work for comic effect, often with the intention of making a critical statement or commentary.
Parody often takes the form of a comedic representation, using humor and wit to highlight the quirks, flaws, or absurdities of the original work or its subject matter. It may employ various techniques, such as mimicry, irony, burlesque, and hyperbole, to underscore its exaggerated and comical nature.
The purpose of a parody can vary. While some parodies aim solely to entertain, others may have a more substantial objective, such as political or social criticism. Parodies can serve as a means to challenge established norms, question prevailing beliefs, or shed light on issues through sarcasm, wit, and satire.
Parody is seen in various mediums, including literature, music, film, television, and visual arts. It often relies on the audience's familiarity with the original work or its genre to fully appreciate the intended humor and critique. Successful parodies strike a delicate balance between imitation and originality, providing both amusement and insightful commentary.
• A poetical pleasantry in which verses of a grave and serious nature on one subject are altered and applied to another by way of burlesque.
• To alter, as verses or words, and apply them to a subject different from that of the original.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "parody" is derived from the Greek word "parodia", which is formed by combining "para" (meaning "beside" or "alongside") and "ode" (meaning "song" or "poem"). In ancient Greece, a "parodia" referred to a form of poetry that imitated or mimicked an existing work, often in a humorous or satirical manner. Over time, the meaning of the word expanded to encompass other forms of artistic imitation, such as literature, drama, or music, that aim to mock, ridicule, or exaggerate the style or content of the original work.