Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) Vocabulary 2026 Practice Test

The chosen answer accurately defines "wry" humor as mocking or dry humor. Wry humor is characterized by a clever, often ironic twist that conveys a sense of disdain or subtle sarcasm without being overtly harsh. It has an understated quality that reflects a sophisticated understanding of the subject being humorously critiqued. This type of humor often blends a sense of realism with a gentle skewering of circumstances or characters.

In contrast, the other options do not capture the essence of wry humor. For instance, a definition that describes humor as playful and innocent does not encompass the ironic and sometimes sardonic nature of wry humor. Similarly, overly cheerful humor lacks the dry, often ironic characteristic essential to wry humor, which emphasizes a more nuanced and sometimes darker perspective. Lastly, serious and somber humor would be antithetical to the light-hearted yet biting quality that defines wry humor. Therefore, option B stands out as the most fitting description for wry humor.