Rabelaisian is an adjective used to describe a style of writing or speech that is EARTHY, IRONIC, and RIBALD. It is derived from the works of French Renaissance writer François Rabelais, who was known for his bawdy humor and satire. EARTHY refers to something that is down-to-earth, natural, and unrefined. IRONIC means that something is unexpected or contrary to what is expected. RIBALD means that something is humorous in a vulgar or indecent way. Together, these three words describe the Rabelaisian style of writing.