irritation

noun

ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən 

1

a

: the state of being irritated

b

: something that irritates

c

: the act of irritating

2

: a condition of irritability, soreness, roughness, or inflammation of a bodily part

Synonyms

• aggravation
• aggro [British]
• annoyance
• bother
• botheration
• exasperation
• frustration
• grief
• pip [chiefly British]
• vexation

Examples of irritation in a Sentence

Dad's general irritation at the incessant complaining coming from the back seat of the car.

Recent Examples on the Web

The formula is lightweight and non-greasy, with a soft, powdery finish that helps prevent irritation without feeling heavy. —Symiah Dorsey, Southern Living, 22 June 2025

With people spending over two hours a day on social media, each swipe delivers another micro-dose of engagement—or irritation. —Bylyric Mandell, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025

While these could be effective for some people, there might be a risk for burning and irritation, which could further aggravate the pimple. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA Today, 20 June 2025

Whether powered by retinol or antioxidant-rich botanicals, each formula firms and smooths the delicate eye area—while calming agents like centella asiatica and panthenol help prevent irritation. —Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 19 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1c

Rhymes for irritation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

irritation

noun

ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən 

1

: the act of irritating : the state of being irritated

2

: irritant entry 2

Medical Definition

irritation

noun

ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən 

1

a

: the act of irritating

b

: something that irritates

c

: the state of being irritated

2

: a condition of irritability, soreness, roughness, or inflammation of a bodily part