Ironical (Adjective)
Meaning 1
Characterized by often poignant difference or incongruity between what is expected and what actually is; "madness, an ironic fate for such a clear thinker"; "it was ironical that the well-planned scheme failed so completely".
Classification
All adjective clusters.
Examples
- The comedian's ironical tone was lost on some members of the audience who took his jokes literally.
- It's ironical that the company's slogan "Built to Last" was printed on the recall notice for their faulty products.
- The novel's ironical twist at the end left many readers feeling dismayed and surprised.
- In an ironical turn of events, the politician who campaigned on a promise to reduce bureaucracy ended up creating more red tape.
- It was ironical that the fire station caught on fire due to an electrical malfunction.
Synonyms
Related Words
Meaning 2
Humorously sarcastic or mocking; "dry humor"; "an ironic remark often conveys an intended meaning obliquely"; "an ironic novel"; "an ironical smile"; "with a wry Scottish wit".
Classification
All adjective clusters.