What does irony refer to in language?

Irony in language specifically refers to a situation where the intended meaning of words is opposite to their literal meaning. This often creates a contrast between expectation and reality, leading to an insightful or humorous effect. For instance, if someone says, "What a lovely day," during a storm, they are employing irony, as the literal meaning of their words does not align with the actual situation. This use of irony can enhance storytelling by adding depth and engaging the reader’s attention, as they recognize the disparity between what is said and what is truly meant.