Ironic

Definition

Using or characterized by irony; happening in the opposite way to what is expected, and typically causing wry amusement because of this.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /aɪˈrɑnɪk/
• Respelling: eye-RON-ik (with "eye" as in "my," "RON" as in "con," and "ik" as in "tick")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /aɪˈrɒnɪk/
• Respelling: eye-RON-ik (with "eye" as in "my," "RON" as in "con," and "ik" as in "tick")

In both dialects, "ironic" places the primary stress on the second syllable, "RON." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "eye-RON-ik."

Etymology

From the Greek word "eirōneia", meaning "dissimulation, feigned ignorance". It moved through Latin as "ironia" and then into Old French as "ironie" before being adopted in English.

Derivatives

• Irony
• Ironical
• Ironically
• Ironize
• Ironist

Synonyms

• Sarcastic
• Satirical
• Mocking

Antonyms

• Sincere
• Straightforward
• Earnest

Usage

"Ironic" is used to describe situations where there is a notable contrast between what is expected and what actually happens, often creating a humorous or poignant effect.

Related Terms

• Paradox
• Oxymoron
• Satire
• Sarcasm
• Juxtaposition

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Ironic (Adjective): Pertaining to, containing, or characterized by irony.
  • Example: "It is ironic that the fire station burned down."

• Ironic (Adjective, Literary): Involving a contrast between appearance and reality, often used in literature and speech to create a rhetorical effect.
  • Example: "The novel's ironic tone added depth to the story's themes."

Note: "Ironic" often describes situations or remarks that are notable for the disparity between what is expected and what actually happens or is said, especially when the outcome is opposite from expectations.