travesty
UK: ˈtræv.ə.sti | US: ˈtræv.ə.sti
n. a false, absurd, or distorted representation of something
n. a literary or artistic work that ridicules its subject by means of grotesque exaggeration
travesty = tra<across> + vest<clothe> + y<noun suffix>
- tra<across>: From Latin trans-, meaning "across" or "beyond."
- vest<clothe>: From Latin vestis, meaning "garment" or "clothing."
- y<noun suffix>: A suffix forming abstract nouns, often indicating a state or quality.
Etymology Origin:
The word travesty originates from the French travestir ("to disguise"), which combines trans- ("across") and vestir ("to clothe"). It originally referred to dressing in exaggerated or incongruous clothing, later evolving metaphorically to describe a grotesque or absurd imitation in literature or art. The term captures the idea of "cross-dressing" in a figurative sense—distorting reality by "clothing" it in inappropriate or exaggerated forms.
The trial was a travesty of justice, with biased judges and fabricated evidence.
His parody of the classic novel was more of a travesty than a homage.
The film’s adaptation turned the original story into a laughable travesty.
Critics called the play a travesty of Shakespeare’s work due to its nonsensical dialogue.
The politician dismissed the investigation as a travesty designed to smear his reputation.