Advertisement - Continue reading below

Definition of "ironic" []

  • Characterized by or constituting irony. (adjective)
  • Given to the use of irony. See Synonyms at sarcastic. (adjective)
  • Poignantly contrary to what was expected or intended: madness, an ironic fate for such a clear thinker. (adjective)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "ironic" in a sentence
  • "I found the title ironic, because whether my pain was all in my head or not, it was definitely in my head."
  • "Alanis Morissette may not know the true meaning of the word "ironic," but she's turned into a fine actress, something she's bound to prove once again when she guest-stars as a bride-to-be on"
  • "Such name-calling makes the term ironic, not a vehicle for oppression."