ironic

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

adjective humorously sarcastic or mocking
adjective characterized by often poignant difference or incongruity between what is expected and what actually is

Borrowed from Late Latin īrōnicus, from Ancient Greek εἰρωνικός (eirōnikós). Compare Middle French, ironique, equivalent to irony + -ic.

His unintended, beautiful, ironic gift. — Life Blood, Thomas Hoover
His Highness smiled with ironic satisfaction. — Walter and the Wireless, Sara Ware Bassett
He meant to give an ironic comment. — The Ultimate Weapon, John W., Jr. (John Wood) Campbell

dry, ironical, wry

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