What is the term for a humorous or satirical haiku?

The term for a humorous or satirical haiku is senryū. It resembles haiku in its compact three-line structure and traditional 17-mora pattern, but its usual subject is human behavior rather than the natural world.

Senryū is named after Karai Senryū, an Edo-period poet and judge of comic verse. The form became known for sharp observations about vanity, hypocrisy, family life, work, social habits, and everyday foolishness. Its humor may be gentle, cynical, dark, or openly satirical.

The distinction between senryū and haiku is useful but not absolute. Haiku traditionally emphasizes nature, seasonal awareness, and a contemplative moment, while senryū concentrates on human foibles. Senryū also generally lacks the kigo, or season word, and kireji, or cutting word, associated with classical haiku practice.

The two forms share historical roots: both developed from the opening verse, or hokku, of linked-verse traditions such as renga. Kireji is a technical cutting word, kigo is a seasonal reference, and haikai is a broader linked-verse tradition—not the specific name for comic haiku.