ironical
ironical Lexical Profile
ironical Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Using, characterized by, or expressing irony; conveying a meaning that is the opposite of the literal words used, typically for humorous or emphatic effect.
"The professor answered the student's obvious question with an ironical smile and a polite nod."
Happening in the opposite way to what is expected, and typically causing wry amusement because of this.
"It is somewhat ironical that the author's most famous guide to time management was published three months past its deadline."
Word Nuance & Usage
While 'ironic' and 'ironical' are largely interchangeable, 'ironic' is now far more common in both American and British English, whereas 'ironical' is sometimes preferred in British English to describe a person's tone or attitude (e.g., 'an ironical smile').
• Rhymes for ironical
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Formed in the late 16th century from 'ironic' plus the suffix '-al', ultimately tracing back via Late Latin 'ironicus' to Ancient Greek 'eirōnikos' (dissembling, putting on a feigned ignorance), from 'eirōneia' (irony).