burlesque

Reading level: hard

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun a theatrical entertainment of broad and earthy humor; consists of comic skits and short turns (and sometimes striptease)
  2. noun a composition that imitates or misrepresents somebody's style, usually in a humorous way
  3. verb make a parody of

Etymology

Borrowed from French burlesque, from Italian burlesco (“parodic”).

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