irritant

1 of 2

noun

ir·​ri·​tant ˈir-ə-tənt 

: something that irritates or excites

irritant

2 of 2

adjective

: causing irritation

specifically : tending to produce physical irritation

Synonyms of irritant

Noun

• headache
• nuisance
• thorn
• frustration
• annoyance

Examples of irritant in a Sentence

Noun

dust and other lung irritants

The delay was a minor irritant.

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

Powder emitted from an airbag deployment in Hampton’s car could have been an irritant to Hampton’s eyes, Brissette suggested. — Emerson Clarridge, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 July 2026

The signature blend of ceramides works to strengthen and support the skin’s natural barrier, which helps lock in moisture while defending against environmental irritants like pollutants and allergens. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 23 July 2026

Adjective

According to Jim McHale, president of JP McHale Pest Management, salt can act as an irritant or contact killer for pests with soft exoskeletons. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 6 June 2026

Police Chief Chris Dennison, who assumed the job in September 2024, has overseen an expansion in the use of pepper ball launchers, which fire paintball-like munitions filled with PAVA, a synthetic chemical irritant similar to pepper spray. — Idaho Statesman, 13 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1802, in the meaning defined above

Adjective

1636, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

irritant

1 of 2 adjective

ir·​ri·​tant ˈir-ə-tənt 

: tending to produce anger, annoyance, impatience, soreness, or inflammation

especially : tending to produce physical irritation

irritant

2 of 2 noun

: something that irritates

Medical Definition

irritant

1 of 2 adjective

ir·​ri·​tant ˈir-ə-tənt 

: causing irritation

specifically : tending to produce inflammation

irritant

2 of 2 noun

: something that irritates or excites

specifically : an agent by which irritation is produced

a chemical irritant