epirrhema

Century Dictionary and Cyclopedia

1. n. In anc. Gr. comedy, a part of the parabasis (or second parabasis also, if there is one), consisting in a direct address of the chorus to the spectators, and containing humorous complaints and direct attacks upon the follies and vices of the public, the mismanagement of state affairs, etc., with special reference to passing events and hits at well-known individuals.

Wiktionary

1. n. an address usually made about public affairs spoken by the leader of the chorus after the parabasis in Ancient Greek old comedies