What does it mean when people say "the irony was lost on (name of person)"?

Question

What does it mean when people say "the irony was lost on (name of person)"?

Answer 1

Irony is when you say something that means just the opposite.  The irony is lost on someone when they get the literal meaning of the words instead of the ironic meaning.

For instance, if you're discussing politics with a Republican and the Republican says something negative about Bush's intelligence, you might say 'Yeah, I always thought he was the most intelligent and competent president ever.'  A Democrat would understand that you meant just the opposite, but a Republican might well think you were agreeing with him and say 'Yeah, that's what I think too.'

Answer 2

It means the person didn't get it.  

Answer 3

It means the person did not see the irony involved in a situation.