How to Pronounce Burlesque

To pronounce "burlesque", say BURL-esq-ue — 3 syllables, IPA /bə(ɹ)ˈlɛsk/. Tap play below to hear it in four English accents, or practice it syllable by syllable.

burlesque

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Accent

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3

Syllables

9

Letters

/bə(ɹ)ˈlɛsk/

IPA

💡 Tip for remembering “burlesque”

"burlesque" has 3 syllables: burl-esq-ue. It rhymes with grotesque and statuesque, if that helps it stick.

What does burlesque mean?

noun

  1. A derisive art form that mocks by imitation; a parody.
  2. A variety adult entertainment show, usually including titillation such as striptease, most common from the 1880s to the 1930s.

verb

  1. To make a burlesque parody of.
  2. To ridicule, or to make ludicrous by grotesque representation in action or in language.

adjective

  1. Parodical; parodic

Synonyms

caricatureimitationlampoontravesty

Hear “burlesque” in real sentences

Real example sentences from Tatoeba (CC-BY) — tap to hear each one, or see it used on YouGlish.

Words that rhyme with burlesque

Practicing rhymes trains the same ending sounds.

grotesquestatuesquedeskromanesqueesqueautodeskbeskegeskejeskekafkaesque

Related words

parodysendupspooftravestypasquinadelampoonmockerycharade

Frequently asked questions

How many syllables are in "burlesque"?▾

"Burlesque" has 3 syllables: burl · esq · ue.

What is the IPA transcription of "burlesque"?▾

The IPA transcription of "burlesque" is /bə(ɹ)ˈlɛsk/.

What does "burlesque" mean?▾

Burlesque: A derisive art form that mocks by imitation; a parody.

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