How can irony be defined?

Irony is defined as a contrast between expectation and reality, which captures the essence of how situations can subvert what we anticipate. In many forms of communication, irony can manifest in various ways, such as situational irony, where the outcome is different from what one would expect, or verbal irony, where someone says something but means the opposite. This disparity creates a layer of meaning that enriches the experience for the audience or reader, allowing for a deeper understanding of the context in which the irony is presented. Recognizing this contrast is essential in literature, satire, and everyday conversations, as it reveals insights about human experiences, societal norms, and the complexities of life itself.