antiphrasis
nounfemininetécnico/ɐ̃.ti.ˈfɾa.zɨ/low
an·tí·fra·se
Definition
A figure of speech in which a word or phrase is used to mean the opposite of its usual sense, typically for ironic effect.
Calling a very tall person 'Shorty' is a common example of antiphrasis.
The author's use of antiphrasis added a layer of sarcasm to the narrative.
syn
Common collocations
use of antiphrasisfigure of speech antiphrasis
Etymology
Do grego 'antíphrasis', através do latim 'antiphrasis'.