IRONY

n. (pl. -ies) 1 an expression of meaning, often humorous or sarcastic, by the use of language of a different or opposite tendency. 2 an ill-timed or perverse arrival of an event or circumstance that is in itself desirable. 3 the use of language with one meaning for a privileged audience and another for those addressed or concerned. [L ironia f. Gk eironeia simulated ignorance f. eiron dissembler]