wryly

American  

[rahy-lee] / ˈraɪ li /

adverb

1. in a mockingly or amusingly ironic way.

   It will be an evening of wryly thoughtful musing, whimsical conversation, and a few old-timey songs.

2. in a bitter or scornful way; sardonically.

   The writer wryly adds that he has complete faith in humanity's ability to wake up at the alarm and promptly hit the snooze button.

3. in a distorted, bent, or lopsided manner.

   His lips twisted wryly at the acknowledgment.

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Etymology

Origin of wryly

wry ( def. ) + -ly

Explanation

The adverb wryly describes something that is done in a wry manner, like making a clever comment or witty observation. Things that are wry are funny but don't necessarily make you laugh, and that applies to speaking and writing wryly as well. This word describes an action that is amusing — or shows amusement — in a droll, sardonic, ironic or grim way. Biting one-liners and deadpan jokes alike are uttered wryly. If you publicly insist you could dunk a basketball but are under six feet tall, you might see a few pairs of eyebrows raised wryly in your direction.

Example Sentences

Wryly described by Mather as “mega-malist” in scope, the blockbuster aesthetic contrasts quietly with Branagh’s less-is-more concept.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2022

Wryly, he told me that people expected the wrong sort of book from him.

From The Guardian • May 18, 2017

Wryly, he adds: "If you find a normal person, let me know."

From BBC • Mar. 17, 2016

Wryly, he also noted a statute at its base depicting a dragon covered in small birds.

From New York Times • Oct. 28, 2012

Wryly he said, "May I ask if we have a representative from the government of the United States?"

From Black Man's Burden by Reynolds, Mack