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

Additionally, secondhand marijuana smoke has higher levels of fine particulate matter, which can cause cardiovascular disease and lung irritation and make respiratory infections and asthma attacks more likely. —David Stempel, The Mercury News, 9 Nov. 2024

Find it on Amazon A Retinol Kit for Your Nighttime Routine Pairing hydrating products with retinoids is essential to prevent irritation and protect your skin. —Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 1 Nov. 2024

There are various causes of dandruff, including seborrheic dermatitis, skin conditions like scalp psoriasis or scalp ringworm, and irritation from hair care products or environmental triggers. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 29 Oct. 2024

Less common or rare side effects may include pigment changes, skin irritation, and scarring if the skin is not properly treated. —Iman Balagam, Vogue, 22 Oct. 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