Word of the day–Irony

i·ro·ny [ahy-ruh-nee, ahy-er-]

noun, plural i·ro·nies.

1. the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning:
2. Literature:
   1. a technique of indicating, as through character or plot development, an intention or attitude opposite to that which is actually or ostensibly stated.
   2. (especially in contemporary writing) a manner of organizing a work so as to give full expression to contradictory or complementary impulses, attitudes, etc., especially as a means of indicating detachment from a subject, theme, or emotion.
3. Socratic irony:
   1. noun: pretended ignorance in discussion.
   2. philosophy a means by which the pretended ignorance of a skillful questioner leads the person answering to expose his own ignorance
4. Dramatic irony:
   1. noun: irony that is inherent in speeches or a situation of a drama and is understood by the audience but not grasped by the characters in the play.
5. an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.

Advertisements