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Travesty: meaning, definitions and examples

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travesty

 

[ ˈtræv.ə.sti ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mockery, distortion

A travesty is a crude, exaggerated, or absurd representation of something. It often involves the distortion of original works, such as literature, art, or important events, turning them into a caricature or parody. This term can also refer to a situation that is a mockery of the truth or seriousness of a matter. In a broader sense, a travesty can indicate a complete failure or a perversion of the intended meaning.

Synonyms

caricature, farce, mockery, parody, sham

Examples of usage

  • The film was a travesty of the classic novel.
  • His election speech was a travesty of democracy.
  • The art exhibit became a travesty instead of an appreciation of the original works.

Translations

Translations of the word "travesty" in other languages:

🇵🇹 travesti

🇮🇳 व्यंग्य

🇩🇪 Travestie

🇮🇩 travesti

🇺🇦 травестія

🇵🇱 trawestacja

🇯🇵 トラヴェスティ

🇫🇷 travestissement

🇪🇸 travestismo

🇹🇷 travesti

🇰🇷 트라베스티

🇸🇦 ترافستي

🇨🇿 travestie

🇸🇰 travestie

🇨🇳 滑稽模仿

🇸🇮 travestija

🇮🇸 travesti

🇰🇿 травестия

🇬🇪 ტრავესტი

🇦🇿 travesti

🇲🇽 travestismo

Etymology

The word 'travesty' comes from the Latin 'travestire', which means 'to dress up' or 'to disguise'. This term is a combination of 'trans-' meaning 'across' or 'beyond' and 'vestire', meaning 'to clothe'. Originally used in the 16th century, it described a work that was presented in a mocking or distorted manner, often referring to literary works that were altered to satirical or humorous effect. Over time, its usage broadened to include not just the distortion of art and literature but also any situation that perverts the truth or seriousness of an event. The evolution of the word reflects a growing recognition of how representations can inaccurately reflect reality, leading to the modern understanding of travesty as a significant affront to the original intent or dignity of any subject.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,288, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.