# wry

/ˈɹaɪ/ (US) · /ɹˈaɪ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wry
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

having a slightly humorous or sarcastic look on your face. You use this to describe someone who is not angry, but is showing a bit of dry humor.

For teachers: characterised by a dry, sarcastic, or ironic expression. Often used to describe a facial expression that suggests a person is amused or slightly annoyed without being overtly hostile.

## Examples

- He gave a wry smile when he heard the bad news.
- The actor's wry expression suggested he was not entirely pleased with the script but was trying to be professional.
- Her wry observation about the situation was met with a mix of laughter and silence, as the group struggled to reconcile her dry humor with the gravity of the moment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.