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

Not to mention, the dryness and irritation lead to extra UV damage and premature aging. —WWD, 2 July 2024

The formula is cooling, and the light scents invigorate the senses without causing irritation. —Jessie Quinn, Peoplemag, 2 July 2024

In May, Pearce announced that she had been diagnosed with a heart condition called pericarditis, a swelling and irritation of the pericardium, the thin, saclike tissue that surrounds the heart, according to the Mayo Clinic. —Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 25 June 2024

Risks of skin irritation and sunburn are possible while using retinol which is why SPF is such an essential step to your daily routine. —Samantha Mims, Essence, 24 June 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