Definition of: burlesque

(bər·lesk′) noun
1. Ludicrous imitation or representation; broad caricature; travesty
2. A product of such imitation, as a literary or dramatic work intended to produce laughter by its caricature or satire.
3. U.S. A theatrical entertainment marked by low comedy, strip-tease, etc. See synonyms under CARICATURE.
— v. ·lesqued, ·les·quing v.t. To represent by grotesque parody or ridicule.
— v.i. To use burlesque.
— adjective Marked by ludicrous incongruity or broad caricature. [<F <Ital. burlesco <burla joke]
—bur·les'quer noun