Simple Definition of travesty

from our Learner's Dictionary

travesty

noun

plural travesties
: something that is shocking, upsetting, or ridiculous because it is not what it is supposed to be
It is a travesty and a tragedy that so many people would be denied the right to vote.
The investigation into the causes of the accident was a complete travesty. [=sham]
The trial was a travesty of justice.

Cite this Entry

“Travesty.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/travesty. Accessed 23 Jun. 2026.

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