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 of irritation

• frustration
• exasperation
• annoyance
• displeasure
• grief

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

Her hands, though inflamed and covered in red sores, also had several large areas that were smooth and lacked any signs of irritation. —Jerome Groopman, New Yorker, 6 Apr. 2026

Scalp buildup is typically the cause of this irritation. —Cory Martin, Verywell Health, 2 Apr. 2026

This lightweight moisturizer for oily skin is perfect for those prone to breakouts or irritation, but people with dry, flaky skin may want a thicker cream to help heal the skin barrier. —John Monaco, InStyle, 1 Apr. 2026

Crohn’s disease, a lifelong condition that causes inflammation and irritation in your digestive tract, is pretty common. —Korin Miller, SELF, 31 Mar. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for irritation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

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