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

• frustration
• exasperation
• annoyance
• displeasure
• grief

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

There’s no denying ingrown hairs are a pain—especially around the bikini line—but the best ingrown hair treatments can soothe irritation and, with consistent use, help prevent them from showing up at all. —Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 19 July 2025

But its side effects are famous too, which can include redness, irritation, dryness and even peeling skin. —Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025

Plus, niacinamide reduces oil, hyaluronic acid hydrates, and aloe vera soothes irritation. —Jessica Kasparian, SELF, 16 July 2025

At lower levels, exposure can cause nose and throat irritation. —Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 July 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