ironically

[ahy-ron-ik-lee]

adverb

1. in a way that uses words to mean the opposite of what they normally mean, or makes an obvious exaggeration or understatement, as a joke or in order to make a point.

   French author Voltaire ironically commented on war, “It is forbidden to kill; therefore all murderers are punished unless they kill in large numbers and to the sound of trumpets.”

2. in a way that is the opposite of what would be expected, often as a remarkable coincidence.

   Ironically, one of the main messages of this text on warfare is how to avoid battle through meticulous preparation and planning.

Other Word Forms

• nonironically adverb
• semi-ironically adverb
• unironically adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of ironically¹

First recorded in 1530–40; ironical ( def. ) + -ly

Example Sentences

He was behind bars in a high-security prison complex in the district of Silivri, on the western edge of the city – ironically close to the epicentre.

From BBC

He was haunting as the conflicted foodie/serial killer in psychological thriller “The Patient,” where he co-starred, ironically, with Steve Carell.

From Los Angeles Times

But, ironically, “Move On,” in its new setting, had the powerfully intimate feel of stopping and reflecting.

From Los Angeles Times

He believes the censorship has ironically boosted the profile of their art show, with "now many people in the world interested in seeing the exhibition" and discussing it online.

From BBC

“But unfortunately we never saw that surge of business that we expected until just this couple of weeks, ironically after we announced our closing.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• amusingly www.thesaurus.com
• jokingly www.thesaurus.com