ironic

[ ahy-ron-ik ]

adjective

1. using words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning; containing or exemplifying irony:

   an ironic novel; an ironic remark.

2. of, relating to, or tending to use irony or mockery; ironical.
3. coincidental; unexpected:

   It was ironic that I was seated next to my ex-husband at the dinner.

ironic

/ aɪˈrɒnɪk /

adjective

1. of, characterized by, or using irony

Derived Forms

• iˈronicalness, noun

Other Words From

• noni·ronic adjective
• semi-i·ronic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of ironic¹

First recorded in 1620–30; from Late Latin īrōnicus, from Greek eirōnikós “dissembling, insincere;” irony ¹, -ic

Example Sentences

And I really ought to extol the graciously ironic handling of “Chrysanthemum Tea,” one of those oh-so-clever Sondheim numbers that spans enormous dramatic territory in a manner so catchy that the song seems to gallop.

From Los Angeles Times

Making the role his own with his distinctive blend of solemn gravity and ironic urbanity, Parsons is the standout in the cast.

From Los Angeles Times

The show tried a few different tacks, just a week after Vice President Kamala Harris appeared on the show, including a cold open that mocked Trump by having the entire cast pretend to support him and a Burr monologue that, depending on how you viewed it, was either wildly insensitive to dejected Harris supporters, particularly women, or provocatively ironic.

From Los Angeles Times

“It is interesting that 70% say this country is going in the wrong direction. Isn't it ironic that it's the woman who refuses to ask for directions?”

From Salon

In fact, the final report stated that Biden had actually won Arizona by several hundred more votes than initially tallied, an outcome that can only be described as illegally ironic.

From Salon

Related Words

• arrogant
• caustic
• incongruous
• mocking
• paradoxical
• ridiculous
• sardonic
• satiric
• satirical
• twisted
• unexpected
• wry