What does "tirade" refer to?

The term "tirade" specifically denotes a long, angry speech or denunciation. It is often characterized by an outpouring of emotion, particularly anger, where the speaker expresses strong criticism or complaints about something or someone. The word carries a connotation of intensity and duration, distinguishing it from shorter or milder forms of expression. In contrast, the other options represent very different kinds of communication: a short statement is brief and to the point, a humorous comment aims to invoke laughter rather than anger, and a gentle reprimand suggests a soft approach to correcting behavior rather than a forceful or passionate address. This context helps clarify why "tirade" aligns with the notion of an extended, passionate discussion rather than any of the other descriptions provided.