In literary terms, how might one describe a 'wry' comment?

A 'wry' comment is best described as humorous in an understated way. This term conveys a sense of irony or dry wit, often presenting humor through subtlety rather than overt jest. Wry observations frequently contain a layer of complexity, where the humor is not immediately obvious and may even be tinged with a slight sense of sarcasm or skepticism.

In literature, such comments can reveal deeper truths or criticisms about a subject while simultaneously engaging the reader's amusement. This nuanced style makes wry remarks particularly effective in character dialogues or narrations, adding richness to the text and allowing for multiple interpretations. The understated quality means that the humor might not elicit loud laughter but provokes a more reflective, knowing smile or chuckle from the audience.