Pronunciation coach
Ironic
Sounds like
eyeronik
Tap the speaker to hear the word.
Simple meaning
What does Ironic mean?
Ironic means surprisingly opposite from what is expected.
Dictionary definition
showing a surprising contrast between what is expected and what actually happens or is meant.
Example sentences
Ironic in a sentence
easy
It was ironic that the rain started during the weather lesson.
medium
The story had an ironic ending because the helper needed help.
hard
Readers notice ironic moments when outcomes contrast with expectations.
Synonyms
Words like Ironic
unexpectedNot what was expected.
contrastingShowing a clear difference.
wryUsing dry or clever humor.
Antonyms
Opposite words
expectedHappening as predicted.
straightforwardClear and direct.
literalMeaning exactly what the words say.
Word family
Ironic word family
Base word
ironic
noun
irony
A surprising contrast between expectation and reality.
adverb
ironically
In an ironic way.
adjective
ironic
Base form.
Related words
Explore related words
Quick practice
Try Ironic
Practice 1
What does ironic mean?
Ironic describes a contrast between expectation and reality.
Practice 2
Which sentence uses ironic correctly?
This sentence shows a surprising contrast.
Practice 3
Which word is closest in meaning to ironic?
Unexpected is close in meaning to ironic in many contexts.
Practice this skill
Practice vocabulary in WordHive
Use the dictionary to understand Ironic, then move into short activities matched to the skills on this page.
Learning paths
- Define the Word Hive for word meanings.
- Synonym Search for word choice.
- Context Clue Challenge for sentence clues.
- Buzz Between for homophones and listening.
- Hive Builder for roots, prefixes, and suffixes.