IRONIC Synonyms: 69 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'ironic' different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of ironic are sarcastic , sardonic , and satiric . While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," ironic implies an attempt to be amusing or provocative by saying usually the opposite of what is meant. // made the ironic observation that the government could always be trusted

Q: When is 'sarcastic' a more appropriate choice than 'ironic'?

The meanings of sarcastic and ironic largely overlap; however, sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing. // a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

Q: When would 'sardonic' be a good substitute for 'ironic'?

The words sardonic and ironic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression. // surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

Q: When is it sensible to use 'satiric' instead of 'ironic'?

In some situations, the words satiric and ironic are roughly equivalent. However, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation. // a satiric look at contemporary society

ironic

adjective

variants also ironical

Definition of ironic next

as in acidic

marked by an often negative or mocking form of wit in which words are used to express something different to their literal meaning a book written in an ironic style an ironic sense of humor

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How is the word ironic different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of ironic are sarcastic, sardonic, and satiric. While all these words mean "marked by bitterness and a power or will to cut or sting," ironic implies an attempt to be amusing or provocative by saying usually the opposite of what is meant.

made the ironic observation that the government could always be trusted

When is sarcastic a more appropriate choice than ironic?

The meanings of sarcastic and ironic largely overlap; however, sarcastic implies an intentional inflicting of pain by deriding, taunting, or ridiculing.

a critic known for his sarcastic remarks

When would sardonic be a good substitute for ironic?

The words sardonic and ironic are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, sardonic implies scorn, mockery, or derision that is manifested by either verbal or facial expression.

surveyed the scene with a sardonic smile

When is it sensible to use satiric instead of ironic?

In some situations, the words satiric and ironic are roughly equivalent. However, satiric implies that the intent of the ridiculing is censure and reprobation.

a satiric look at contemporary society

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of ironic Wednesday’s fire came at an ironic moment: Exactly one year ago, a super-powerful rain cell stalled over southeastern San Diego, unleashing heavy precipitation that helped lead to flooding that damaged more than 1,000 homes and businesses. —

Gary Robbins, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Jan. 2025 This year the annual breakfast falls on Donald Trump’ s presidential inauguration, which some civil rights leaders acknowledged as ironic considering Trump’s divisive rhetoric and policies. —

Carolyn Stein, Chicago Tribune, 20 Jan. 2025 But this event is not Lynchian—there’s nothing seedy, surreal, or ironic about the horror. —

Maya Ibbitson, Architectural Digest, 17 Jan. 2025 That seems cruelly ironic after Los Angeles organizers sold the Games as a no-build event. —

CBS News, 18 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for ironic

Recent Examples of Synonyms for ironic

Adjective

Plant the carrot seed in deep, loose soil free of rocks with a slightly acidic pH. Instead of putting carrot plants where other members of the carrot family grew or are growing, consider placing it near a sage plant (a good companion for preventing carrot rust flies).

— Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 8 Feb. 2025
Bittersweet chocolate provides a pronounced bitter and even slightly acidic flavor.

— Gretchen McKay, Twin Cities, 5 Feb. 2025