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Definition of satirical
satirical
/səˈtɪr.ɪ.kəl/
sa · tir · i · cal
Adverb:satirically
satirical Lexical Profile
CEFR
C1
Grade
9
Tier
2
Usage
Top 10k
Syllables
4
satirical Game Scores & Validity
Scrabble US
Scrabble UK
WWF
Wordle Guess
• adjective
1
Containing, using, or characterized by satire; employing irony, sarcasm, or ridicule to expose and criticize human folly, vice, or societal shortcomings.
Example
"The playwright wrote a satirical comedy that mocked the hypocrisy of local politicians."
Synonyms
View all synonyms for satirical Antonyms
View all antonyms for satiricalWord Nuance & Usage
Do not confuse 'satirical' (relating to literary or artistic satire) with 'satyric' (relating to satyrs or ancient Greek satyr plays).
• Rhymes for satirical
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in the early 16th century from Middle French 'satirique' and Late Latin 'satiricus', from Latin 'satira' (originally 'satura lanx', meaning a 'full dish' or mixed platter, hence a poetic medley).
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Satirical. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/satirical