Definition

The quality of expressing something in a way that means the opposite of what is said, often in a humorous or sarcastic manner.

Example

Her ironicalness made it hard to tell if she was being serious or joking.

Conversation

I found it funny how he missed his own surprise party.

Yeah, that was pretty typical of him!

It's the kind of ironicalness that makes you laugh.

Exactly! You just can't make this stuff up.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Ironicalness → It is formed from "ironic" (from Greek "eironeia", meaning dissimulation or feigned ignorance) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word "ironicalness" refers to the quality or state of being ironic.

Memory Tip

Think of the quality of being 'feigned' or 'dissimulated' — that's what 'ironicalness' means, the state of being ironic.

Visually Confused Words