What term describes the intentional use of humor to indicate the opposite of the stated content?

The term that accurately describes the intentional use of humor to indicate the opposite of the stated content is irony. Irony often involves a situation in which there is a contrast between expectations and reality, or between what is said and what is meant. Specifically, verbal irony occurs when a speaker says one thing but intends the opposite, often highlighting a discrepancy in meaning for humorous or emphatic effect.

In the context of humor, irony can serve to provide a deeper commentary on the subject being discussed, as the stated words are not meant to be taken at face value. This device is commonly used in various forms of literature, dialogue, and even everyday interactions to convey complexity and wit.

While satire, hyperbole, and parody involve humor, they serve different purposes. Satire critiques societal issues through humor, hyperbole emphasizes exaggeration for effect, and parody mimics an existing work to comment humorously on it, rather than directly indicating the opposite of what is stated. Thus, irony is the most fitting term for the described usage of humor.