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.
The reefs have taken their share of ships since then, ironically making the waters around the island a diver’s paradise. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 9 Apr. 2025 The success of the plan, perhaps ironically, relies heavily on oil revenues. Natasha Turak, CNBC, 9 Apr. 2025 The agency has yet to fully implement the First Step Act—ironically, a Trump-era initiative. Walter Pavlo, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025 McCartney would always cherish the memory of one moment, ironically after a heated argument with Lennon. Jordan Runtagh, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Ironically.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ironically. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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