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

Use it to soothe irritation and minimize scarring, or apply it to the hair and scalp as a nourishing mask. —Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 2 Jan. 2026

Glycolic acid provides heavy resurfacing, while the supporting acids exfoliate more evenly, reducing the risk of irritation typically associated with stronger exfoliants. —Jailynn Taylor, Allure, 1 Jan. 2026

Outside of the dormant period, figs can release excessive sticky sap when cut that can cause skin irritation and lead to plant diseases. —Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 31 Dec. 2025

Beer and sparkling drinks can worsen bloating and heartburn due to carbonation, while high-proof shots can cause irritation, Korenblit said. —Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 31 Dec. 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