1. To make fun of something while overemphasizing and magnifying its distinguishing aspects for humorous and witty results: To spoof someone or something is to produce a humorous imitation; such as, a film or a particular kind of film, in which its characteristic features are exaggerated for comic effect.
2. To play a trick on or to deceive someone or other people: Mark Twain once spoofed his friends by saying: "It usually takes more than three weeks to prepare a good impromptu speech."

Jack was spoofing his fellow students about the contrary meanings of words that the teacher had assigned to them to learn; a few examples included the following:

• A tightrope walker is a well-balanced person who always takes the straight and narrow path.
• A toaster is a kitchen appliance that rings a bell when the toast is done or sends up smoke signals.
• Travel is a form of education that broadens the mind, flattens the wallet, and lengthens the conversation.
• A train is the only thing whose tracks people can see even before it has passed by.

3. Etymology: spoof originates as a trivial game of cards in which certain ones when occurring together are considered to be "spoofing". The term was invented by Arthur Roberts, 1852-1933, an English comedian. © ALL rights are reserved.
© ALL rights are reserved.

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