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, sometimes salmonellosis can result in more serious ailments, such as blood infections, heart inflammation, joint stiffness, muscle pain, eye irritation and urinary tract symptoms. —Tim Ryan, Newsweek, 18 Dec. 2024

Over time, the martyr’s growing resentment may surface subtly—irritation, passive-aggression or even emotional withdrawal—leading to tension and misunderstandings. —Mark Travers, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024

Cinnamon oil: Can trigger irritation and allergic reactions. —Sara Hansen, The Denver Post, 13 Dec. 2024

For those of you unaware, paronychia is the medical term for a cuticle infection, which can be caused by trauma (as in, your cuticle cutters), irritation, and exposure to bacteria. —Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

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