What is excessive exaggeration used for humorous effect called?

The term for excessive exaggeration used for humorous effect is hyperbole. Hyperbole intentionally amplifies a statement to such an extent that it becomes improbable or unrealistic, making it effective for creating humor or emphasizing a point. This technique can often be found in poetry, comedy, and everyday speech, allowing speakers and writers to engage their audience by presenting situations in an exaggerated manner.

Imagery refers to the use of descriptive language that engages the senses, creating mental images for the reader but does not focus on exaggeration. An oxymoron is a figure of speech that combines contradictory terms, like "bittersweet," which does not involve exaggeration but rather juxtaposition. Alliteration involves the repetition of initial consonant sounds in closely positioned words, primarily used to create rhythm or emphasis in sound rather than to produce exaggerated statements or humor. Therefore, hyperbole is the most accurate term for excessive exaggeration.