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

Its nourishing, moisturizing formula designed for sensitive skin instantly and noticeably hydrated our skin without any irritation. —L.a. Hubilla, People.com, 9 Dec. 2024

The symptoms, which included breathing difficulties, eye irritation and nosebleeds, were traced to high levels of formaldehyde. —Sharon Lerner and Al Shaw, CNN, 5 Dec. 2024

This technique helps your skin absorb the product without irritation. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 3 Dec. 2024

Lube can also be a great way to enhance comfort and reduce skin irritation, Garcia says. —Adejoke Mason, Them, 3 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