the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning

the irony of her reply, How nice! when I said I had to work all weekend.

Literature .

a technique of indicating, as through character or plot development, an intention or attitude opposite to that which is actually or ostensibly stated.

(esp. in contemporary writing) a manner of organizing a work so as to give full expression to contradictory or complementary impulses, attitudes, etc., esp. as a means of indicating detachment from a subject, theme, or emotion.

Socratic irony.

dramatic irony.

an outcome of events contrary to what was, or might have been, expected.

the incongruity of this.

an objectively sardonic style of speech or writing.

an objectively or humorously sardonic utterance, disposition, quality, etc.

noun

consideration , deference

noun

banter , burlesque , contempt , contrariness , criticism , derision , humor , incongruity , jibe , mockery , mordancy , paradox , quip , raillery , repartee , reproach , ridicule , sardonicism , satire , taunt , twist , wit , antiphrasis , sarcasm