pasquinade

Definition

A lampoon, originally as published in public; a satire or libel on someone.

Etymology

From Middle French, from Italian pasquinata, from Pasquino, name given to a statue in Rome on which lampoons were posted.

Example Sentences

• "I thought the whole tale would shortly be served up in racy pasquinade—but Catherine, who might have said anything, didn't say a word."
• "Queen Juana of Castile: Swear that you speak true./Cesare: I could place my palm on the Bible, but my oath would be a pasquinade./Queen Juana: Then swear on something else./Cesare: I would, if I believed in something other than myself./Queen Juana: A dishonest man would have taken the Bible, regardless of its meaning to him, and sworn until Sunday. I accept your word."