irony — the expression of one's meaning by using language signifying the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: the expression of one's meaning by using language signifying the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈaɪrəni/
Example Sentences
- The fire station burned down while the firefighters were out on a call - talk about irony!
- It's ironic that the author of a book about healthy eating died from overeating.
- The irony wasn't lost on him that he got a parking ticket while attending a meeting about reducing city fines.
irony
NOUN[/ˈaɪrəni/]
the expression of one's meaning by using language signifying the opposite, typically for humorous or emphatic effect
A irony cartoon showing a drenched person praising perfect weather during downpour
The irony of story and worry theory — when opposite meanings dance, truth becomes perfectly contrary
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
From Latin 'ironia', which came from Greek 'eironeia' meaning 'dissimulation' or 'feigned ignorance'. The Greek term is derived from 'eiron', a stock character in Greek comedy who pretends to be ignorant.
Breakdown
Greek 'eiron' (dissembler, one who feigns ignorance) + '-ia' (noun suffix) = ironia (dissimulation) → Latin ironia → English irony
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The fire station burned down while the firefighters were out on a call - talk about irony!”
“It's ironic that the author of a book about healthy eating died from overeating.”
“The irony wasn't lost on him that he got a parking ticket while attending a meeting about reducing city fines.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
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