irony
UK: ˈaɪ.rə.ni | US: ˈaɪ.rə.ni
n. a situation in which there is a contrast between expectation and reality, often humorous or poignant
n. the use of words to convey a meaning opposite to their literal sense; sarcasm
n. (dated) a feigned ignorance or humility in discourse
The word "irony" traces back to the Greek eirōneia, meaning "dissimulation" or "feigned ignorance," often used in Socratic dialogue to expose contradictions. Latin adopted it as ironia, and by the 16th century, English formalized it as "irony." Initially tied to rhetorical feigning, its meaning expanded to encompass situational contrasts (e.g., a fire station burning down) and verbal sarcasm. The Greek root eirōn (a dissembler) reflects the word’s core logic: a gap between appearance and truth.
The irony of his apology was that it only made people angrier.
She used irony to criticize the policy without direct confrontation.
It’s a cruel irony that the health inspector got food poisoning.
His tone dripped with irony when he called the chaotic meeting "productive."
The play’s dramatic irony kept the audience aware of the looming tragedy.