wryly

/ˈraɪli/

The adverb wryly describes something that is done in a wry manner, like making a clever comment or witty observation.

Things that are wry are funny but don't necessarily make you laugh, and that applies to speaking and writing wryly as well. This word describes an action that is amusing — or shows amusement — in a droll, sardonic, ironic or grim way. Biting one-liners and deadpan jokes alike are uttered wryly. If you publicly insist you could dunk a basketball but are under six feet tall, you might see a few pairs of eyebrows raised wryly in your direction.

Definitions of wryly

1. adverb

   in a humorously sarcastic or mocking manner
   “`I see,' he commented wryly”