irony

/ˈaɪə.ɹən.i/noun
Middle SchoolNot in standard dictionaries
1

The quality of a statement that, when taken in context, may actually mean something different from, or the opposite of, what is written literally; the use of words expressing something other than their literal intention, often in a humorous context.

2

An ironic statement.

3

Dramatic irony: a theatrical effect in which the meaning of a situation, or some incongruity in the plot, is understood by the audience, but not by the characters in the play.

4

Socratic irony: ignorance feigned for the purpose of confounding or provoking an antagonist.

5

Contradiction between circumstances and expectations; condition contrary to what might be expected.

Sound Patterns & Rhymes

Alliteration

Words starting with the same consonant sound — used in poetry and prose to create rhythm, emphasis, and memorable phrasing (e.g. “Peter Piper picked”)

Assonance

Words sharing similar vowel sounds regardless of starting letter — creates internal melody in writing

Consonance

Words sharing similar consonant sound patterns — adds texture and cohesion to writing

#informal