Synonyms of ironic

ironic

adjective

variants also ironical

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

Related Words

• acidic
• cynical
• acid
• wry
• poignant
• dry
• sarcastic
• satiric
• sardonic
• sour
• caustic
• trenchant
• spiky
• incisive
• cross
• corrosive
• flippant
• acerbic
• scathing
• facetious
• brisk
• barbed
• pungent
• mordant
• acrid
• snarky
• sharp-tongued
• tongue-in-cheek
• biting
• sourish
• tartish
• tart
• keen
• vitriolic
• cutting
• acrimonious
• acidulous
• smart-alecky
• smart-aleck
• resentful
• stringent
• bitter
• harsh
• severe
• sharp
• acerb
• smart-mouthed
• insincere
• scalding
• backhanded
• rough

Dissimilar Words

• mild
• gentle
• bland
• diplomatic
• polite
• smooth
• good-natured
• urbane
• gracious
• hospitable
• good-humored
• affable
• genial
• cordial
• suave
• sociable

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

Recent Examples of ironic

The ironic twist in this tale of human resources gone awry is that Khamenei was himself a talented leader in other ways. —Graeme Wood, The Atlantic, 1 Mar. 2026

How ironic that the piece appears as millions of Americans are freezing, without power, and New York City’s mayor is paying citizens to shovel snow. —Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Mar. 2026

The mix of accessible designs and bold propositions, rich in pop references and communicated through ironic and irreverent campaigns, activations and collaboration galore enabled Calza to carve a specific niche of loyal fans. —Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 25 Feb. 2026

There’s humor in Ibsen’s ironic observations but the play’s climactic moments are deadly serious. —Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 25 Feb. 2026