~ 1 [ 'ʌɪrəni ]
■ noun ( plural ironies ) the expression of meaning through the use of language signifying the opposite, typically for humorous effect.
↘a state of affairs that appears perversely contrary to what one expects.
↘(also dramatic or tragic ~ ) a literary technique, originally used in Greek tragedy, by which the significance of a character's words or actions are clear to the audience or reader although unknown to the character.
Origin
C16: via L. from Gk eirōneia 'simulated ignorance', from eirōn 'dissembler'.
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~ 2 [ 'ʌɪəni ]
■ adjective of or like iron.