ironic

variants also ironical

Synonym Chooser

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 The capitalist feast is ironic given the franchise’s anti-capitalist critique, and Netflix has received criticism for it. Judy Berman, Time, 27 June 2025 This is all very ironic because the literal plot of KPop Demon Hunters is about a group of global protectors, HUNTR/X, who shield the world from demons with the love of their fans. Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 5 July 2025 Douglass’s decision to speak on July 5, deliberately after Independence Day celebrations, symbolically underscored his argument: America’s celebration of freedom was bitterly ironic and deeply hypocritical in the context of slavery and racial oppression. Ed Gaskin, Boston Herald, 4 July 2025 Advertisement The fire at Fort McMurray was a bitterly ironic wakeup call. Stephen Maher, Time, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for ironic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for ironic
Adjective
  • In oxygen-rich soil, microbes thrive, contributing to decay, and acidic pH levels erode natural materials like leather.
    Kameryn Griesser, CNN Money, 12 July 2025
  • The sharp, slightly sour sauce brought the fries back to life with an acidic, satisfying kick.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 10 July 2025
Adjective
  • For example, Donald Trump’s approach to power reflects a deeply cynical view of human nature.
    Dave Winsborough, Forbes.com, 19 July 2025
  • This Superman movie is the most cynical imaginable.
    Armond White, National Review, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • The floors are done in chestnut-toned wood, with acid green carpets made from bamboo silk, while the VVIP suite has its own private sitting room.
    Samantha Conti, Footwear News, 11 June 2025
  • Fluoride also replaces minerals lost from teeth due to acid breakdown, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
    Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 3 June 2025
Adjective
  • Her portrayal of Diana gives this Amazonian princess the proper regal bearing, but Gadot proves to have a wonderfully wry sense of humor as the character continues to be amazed at how weird male mortals are.
    Tim Grierson, Vulture, 11 July 2025
  • He’s regarded as someone who’s down-to-earth, a tremendous teammate and a dressing room cutup thanks to his quick and wry sense of humour.
    Daniel Nugent-Bowman, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • Wonder’s poignant words led to an unexpected cover of John Lennon’s Imagine, setting the precedent for an uplifting and emotional night celebrating music, family and joy.
    Lee Sharrock, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Like Wim Wenders’ poignant study of a middle-aged janitor’s routines in Tokyo, The Scout could find success in arthouse theaters and on the festival circuit.
    Lovia Gyarkye, HollywoodReporter, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Her candidness, dry humor and emotional honesty resonated with thousands — some fellow transplant recipients, others simply inspired by her resilience.
    Jordan Greene, People.com, 14 July 2025
  • This style from Outdoor Ventures is water- and wind-proof to keep you dry and warm during rainy days.
    Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • His passion for all-things superhero has a giddy innocence to it even when his films are sarcastic or jokey.
    Tim Grierson, Vulture, 11 July 2025
  • Both of us were sarcastic and fun and funny, and always making jokes and pranks and just having fun with everybody on set.
    Daniela Avila, People.com, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • The poem is part love quest, part account of Italy’s battles; in places profoundly serious, in places satiric.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 11 June 2025
  • Neither damning nor satiric, W. is oddly wistful, almost regretful — rare sentiments in a Stone film.
    Will Leitch, Vulture, 17 Feb. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ironic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/ironic. Accessed 26 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on ironic

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!