IRONY Meaning and
Definition
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Irony is a literary and rhetorical device used to convey a sense of contradiction or incongruity between what is expected and what actually occurs. It involves a figurative or situational twist that goes against the expected outcome or the logical progression of events, often producing a humorous or mocking effect. This term encapsulates the unexpected or paradoxical nature of life where things do not always unfold as anticipated or desired.
In literature, irony can be categorized into three main types: verbal irony, situational irony, and dramatic irony. Verbal irony is characterized by the use of words to express the opposite of what is truly intended, often in a sarcastic or derisive manner. Situational irony arises when events take an unexpected turn contrary to what is anticipated, usually creating a disparity between appearance and reality. Dramatic irony occurs when the audience or reader possesses knowledge that the character(s) in a story are unaware of, leading to an intensified emotional impact or a greater understanding of the narrative.
Outside the realm of literature, irony is a pervasive phenomenon. It can be observed in everyday life, art, politics, and various forms of media. Though often used to elicit laughter, irony can also serve as a tool for social commentary, satire, or criticism. Its purpose lies in exposing hypocrisy, incongruities, or contradictions within a given context, making it an essential and versatile element across different domains of human expression.
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• Partaking of iron; resembling iron.
• A mode of speech in which the meaning of the speaker is contrary to his words; a delicate species of sarcasm.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for IRONY *
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Other Common Misspellings for IRONY
Etymology of IRONY
The word "irony" has its roots in the Ancient Greek word "eirōneía", which referred to a specific rhetorical device used in communication. The term "eirōneía" originates from the Greek verb "eirō" meaning "to speak". In Greek literature, "eirōneía" denoted a form of communication where the speaker pretended ignorance or feigned a lack of understanding to provoke a humorous or mocking effect. Over time, the word "irony" evolved from this Greek usage and came to represent a broader concept in English, encompassing various forms of incongruity, sarcasm, or contradiction.
Similar spelling words for IRONY
- iran,
- Irene,
- Irina,
- Irwin,
- irena,
- -ion,
- irani,
- ironed,
- ion,
- iron,
- orion,
- irion,
- irons.
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