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

However, there is a chance that users may experience: Mild irritation Redness Breakouts Another Way to Boost Collagen in the Skin Using a topical collagen mask is not the only way to boost collagen in the skin. —Sohaib Imtiaz, Verywell Health, 21 Mar. 2025

For example, Stoddard recommends applying a hydrating serum before a retinol to help absorb the product into your skin, and to help aid with potential dryness and irritation. —Claire Sullivan, WWD, 19 Mar. 2025

Apply the lip serum before bed, and use a lip balm with SPF during the day to protect against irritation and damage from the sun’s rays. —Siena Gagliano, Allure, 18 Mar. 2025

People prone to acne, dryness, or a chronic skin condition like eczema or psoriasis may experience worsening symptoms due to irritation from salt water.9 Keep in mind that homemade salt water does not have the same benefits as ocean water or deep sea water. —Susan Bard, Health, 18 Mar. 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