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Definition of wryness

wryness

/ˈɹaɪnəs/
wry · ness
Adverb:wryly
•
Adjective:wry
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wryness Lexical Profile

wryness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality of expressing dry, understated, or subtly mocking humor and irony.

Example

"The critic's essay was praised for its quiet wryness, poking gentle fun at pretentious literary trends without sounding bitter."

2

The physical state or condition of being twisted, contorted, or bent to one side, especially of facial features.

Example

"A slight wryness in the corner of his mouth betrayed his discomfort before he spoke."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for wryness

• Nearby Words

wryly
wrymouth
wryneck
wryness
wu
wu river
wuhan

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English from the adjective 'wry' (originating from Old English 'wrigian', meaning to turn, bend, or twist) combined with the suffix '-ness'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Wryness. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/wryness
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