Wryly: meaning, definitions and examples

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wryly

 

[ raɪli ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

tone of voice

Wryly describes a manner of expressing something in a dry, especially mocking or sarcastic way. It often implies a sense of irony and a slightly humorous undertone. When someone speaks wryly, they often convey an understanding of a situation that carries some level of cynicism or cleverness. This type of expression can add depth to communication, indicating that the speaker is aware and perhaps even critical of the underlying situation.

Synonyms

dryly, ironically, mockingly, sarcastically

Examples of usage

  • He wryly commented on the absurdity of the situation.
  • She smiled wryly as she recounted the mishap.
  • The letter was written in a wryly humorous style.
  • He wryly noted the irony of their predicament.

Translations

Translations of the word "wryly" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sarcasticamente

🇮🇳 विनोदी रूप से

🇩🇪 sarkastisch

🇮🇩 dengan sarkas

🇺🇦 іронічно

🇵🇱 sarkastycznie

🇯🇵 皮肉に

🇫🇷 avec ironie

🇪🇸 irónicamente

🇹🇷 alaycı bir şekilde

🇰🇷 빈정대며

🇸🇦 بسخرية

🇨🇿 ironicky

🇸🇰 sarkasticky

🇨🇳 讽刺地

🇸🇮 sarkastično

🇮🇸 hæðnislega

🇰🇿 ирониямен

🇬🇪 ირონიულად

🇦🇿 ironiya ilə

🇲🇽 irónicamente

Word origin

The term 'wryly' originates from the adjective 'wry', which comes from the Old English word 'wyrgan', meaning to twist or to turn. Its current entomology is believed to have evolved through Middle English as a descriptor for something that is twisted or contorted, metaphorically used to describe a dry, twisted sense of humor. Over time, the adverb 'wryly' emerged to provide a means of expressing this type of humor. The usage of 'wry' and 'wryly' has been prevalent in English literature as early as the 16th century, often reflecting a sense of irony or sardonic amusement in humorous storytelling. The continued use of 'wryly' in modern English maintains this connotation, often applied in both spoken and written contexts to indicate a clever or ironic expression.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,841, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.