wry
Say it: RYE /raɪ/ · adjective
What “wry” means
Quietly amused by something disappointing or awkward.
More precisely: Using dry, mocking humour, often about something disappointing.
Example: “She gave a wry smile when her 'quick five-minute job' took all afternoon.”
When to use it
Use it for a dry remark or crooked smile that finds a little humour in an annoying situation.
Similar words
dry, ironic, sardonic
Where it comes from
From Old English wrīgian, 'to turn'; it originally meant twisted or contorted.
Quick check
Rain ruins your picnic. Looking at the soggy sandwiches, you smile slightly and say, “Well, they needed watering.” Your humour is…
ecstatic or wry?
Show the answer
wry
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