irony

Universal Words noun (plural ironies) 1 [U,C] the amusing or strange aspect of a situation that is very different from what you expect; a situation like this: The irony is that when he finally got the job, he discovered he didn't like it. * It was one of life's little ironies. 2 [U] the use of words that say the opposite of what you really mean, often as a joke and with a tone of voice that shows this: 'England is famous for its food,' she said with heavy irony. * There was a note of irony in his voice. * a hint / trace of irony