ironically

adverb

iron·​i·​cal·​ly ˌī-ˈrä-ni-k(ə-)lē How to pronounce ironically (audio)
also i-ˈrä-
1
: in an ironic manner
2
: it is ironic, curious, or surprising

Examples of ironically in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And ironically enough, that Little League home run would’ve been a big league homer in 29 other ballparks. — Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 7 July 2026 In London, recent heatwaves ironically overshadowed much of London Climate Action Week. — Jamil Wyne, Forbes.com, 7 July 2026 Seen in relaxed shapes and often layered or paired with unexpected colors, the pattern feels ironically cool, rather than preppy. — Christina Holevas, Vogue, 5 July 2026 The diaspora created by war has, ironically, become one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s greatest national strengths. — Arminka Helic, Time, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for ironically

Word History

First Known Use

1576, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of ironically was in 1576

Rhymes for ironically

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Browse Nearby Words

ironic
ironically
ironicalness
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Cite this Entry

“Ironically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ironically. Accessed 16 Jul. 2026.

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