Satʹire (2 syl.)

Scaliger’s derivation of this word from satyr is untenable. It is from satʹura (full of variety), satʹura lanx, a hotchpotch or olla podrida. As maxʹumus, optuʹmus, etc., became maximus, optimus, so “satura” became satʹira. (See Dryden’s Dedication prefixed to his Satires.)

Father of satire. Archilʹochos of Paros (B.C. seventh century).

Father of French satire. Mathurin Regnier (1573–1613).

Father of Roman satire. Lucilius (B.C. (148–103).

“Lucilius was the man who, bravely bold,

To Roman vices did the mirror hold;

Protected humble goodness from reproach,

Showed worth on foot, and rascals in a coach.”

Dryden: Art of Poetry, c. ii.

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Entry taken from Dictionary of Phrase and Fable, edited by the Rev. E. Cobham Brewer, LL.D. and revised in 1895.

Satʹire (2 syl.)

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