satirische

Satirische is the attributive form of the German adjective satirisch, used to describe things that employ satire. In German-language writing it functions to characterize works, styles, or elements that use humor, irony, exaggeration, or ridicule to critique individuals, institutions, or social norms. The corresponding noun for the genre is Satire, while satirische describes the manner or quality of the satire.

Linguistically, satirische can modify feminine singular nouns (for example, eine satirische Darstellung), masculine plural nouns (satirische Texte), or other gendered forms, typically with a definite article or in contexts that require inflection. It appears across media and genres, including literature, journalism, theater, film, and visual art, wherever satire is a stated aim.

The concept of satire in German has roots in Latin and entered German through early modern Europe, becoming prominent in Enlightenment and modern discourse as a tool to question power, norms, and public behavior. Satire tends to rely on techniques such as irony, parody, caricature, exaggeration, and understatement to provoke reflection and, sometimes, social change, rather than mere entertainment. Distinctions are often made between satirical works and related forms like Parodie (parody) or Ironie (irony), though these overlaps occur in practice.

In usage, satirische appears in phrases such as satirische Literatur, satirische Kunst, or satirische Filme, signaling a deliberate critical or comic critique. See also Satire, Ironie, Parodie, Karikatur, and Satirewissenschaft for related concepts and analysis.