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

For their first drop, the team launched the Pigment Processor Daily Brightening Serum, which aids in dark spot and irritation elimination. —Akili King, Essence, 15 May 2025

Be cautious of irritation caused by using too many products. —Sarah Bence, Verywell Health, 15 May 2025

To minimize the risk of irritation, Dr. Turner recommends using a product that is formulated with peppermint oil rather than trying to DIY your own treatment. —Lisa Desantis, Glamour, 14 May 2025

Pudendal nerve irritation can be tricky to diagnose, but pelvic floor physical therapy and, in some cases, nerve blocks can help relieve symptoms, Dr. Reardon says. —Cheyenne Buckingham, SELF, 13 May 2025

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