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pasquinade

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Dictionary definition of pasquinade

A satirical or lampooning composition, typically in the form of a written work, speech, or visual display, which aims to mock, criticize, or ridicule a person, institution, or societal issue.
"The comedian's latest routine was a hilarious pasquinade of modern society."

Detailed meaning of pasquinade

This term is often associated with a sharp and witty critique, delivered with a dose of humor or irony. Pasquinades have historically been used as a means of expressing dissent, political commentary, or social criticism, relying on exaggerated portrayals and clever wordplay to convey their message. The term's origin lies in the practice of placing satirical writings on the statue of Pasquino in Rome, which served as a public forum for the dissemination of critical viewpoints. Today, "pasquinade" can refer to various forms of artistic expression that use satire to highlight flaws, absurdities, or injustices in a thought-provoking and often entertaining manner.

Example sentences containing pasquinade

1. The satirical pasquinade in the newspaper skewered political hypocrisy.
2. The pasquinade of the celebrity's downfall went viral on social media.
3. The play's pasquinade of a dysfunctional family struck a chord with the audience.
4. The comedian's pasquinade was a biting critique of societal norms.
5. The pasquinade in the magazine had readers laughing at the absurdity of fashion trends.
6. He wrote a clever pasquinade that lampooned corporate greed.

History and etymology of pasquinade

The noun 'pasquinade' derives its origin from the Italian term 'Pasquino,' a famous Roman statue renowned for being a hub of satirical writings during the Renaissance. Writers and poets would affix their lampoons and critical compositions to the statue, thus coining the term 'pasquinata' to describe such satirical pieces. Over time, 'pasquinade' emerged in the English language, signifying any satirical or lampooning work aimed at mocking individuals, institutions, or societal issues. This word's etymology highlights its historical connection to the tradition of using humor and wit to criticize and ridicule in a public manner.

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Further usage examples of pasquinade

1. The pasquinade artist created witty cartoons that commented on current events.
2. The satirical pasquinade served as a rallying cry for social justice.
3. The political pasquinade poked fun at politicians from both sides of the aisle.
4. Her pasquinade about office life resonated with cubicle-dwellers everywhere.
5. The pasquinade on the city's shortcomings sparked a citywide conversation.
6. The pasquinade at the art gallery challenged conventional notions of beauty.
7. The pasquinade troupe performed witty sketches that pushed boundaries.
8. The magazine's pasquinade of celebrity scandals was a guilty pleasure for readers.
9. The pasquinade in the comedy club had the audience rolling in the aisles.
10. His pasquinade on modern relationships was both hilarious and thought-provoking.
11. The pasquinade in the school newspaper tackled issues affecting students.
12. The playwright's pasquinade about office politics struck a chord with the cast.
13. The pasquinade in the sketch show lampooned pop culture icons.
14. The pasquinade on reality TV exposed the genre's shallow absurdity.
15. The pasquinade about technology addiction had people reflecting on their habits.
16. Her pasquinade about motherhood was a hit among fellow moms.
17. The pasquinade on environmental issues inspired viewers to take action.
18. The pasquinade in the comedy special tackled sensitive topics with humor.
19. His pasquinade of the art world's pretentiousness was both scathing and witty.