Using or expressing dry, especially mocking, humor; ironical. Can also describe something twisted or distorted in shape.
From Old English 'wrigian' (to turn, twist) of Germanic origin. Originally meant physically twisted or bent, the word evolved to describe twisted expressions (like a wry smile) and eventually twisted or sardonic humor by the 16th century.
The physical and metaphorical meanings of 'wry' beautifully mirror each other - just as something wry is physically twisted, wry humor twists expectations and conventional thinking. This type of understated, ironic wit is particularly associated with British humor and represents a sophisticated form of comedy that requires intelligence from both speaker and listener.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.