Double-edged is an adjective that describes something that has two opposite effects or implications. It is often used to describe a situation or statement that can be interpreted in two different ways, one of which is usually negative. The term is also used to describe a weapon with two sharpened edges, such as a sword. In this context, it implies that the weapon can be used for both attack and defense. The crossword solution 'IRONIC' is related to double-edged in that it also has two opposite meanings. Irony is a figure of speech in which the intended meaning is the opposite of what is said. It is often used to express criticism or sarcasm.