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

Possible issues associated with consuming too much of the spice include allergic reactions that can range from mild irritation to serious symptoms; stomach pain; and potential adverse interactions with medications such as blood thinners. — Sara Moniuszko, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2026

Officials said ozone can cause throat irritation, congestion and chest pain, trigger asthma and worsen bronchitis and emphysema. — Tim Fang, CBS News, 9 Sep. 2026

Neither is as offensive as pungent alliums, but both hyacinths also contain toxic compounds that cause mouth irritation and stomach upset if bitten or ingested. — ABC News, 8 Sep. 2026

His wife watches and listens with obvious fondness in her eyes but also an inscrutable hint of emotional detachment, perhaps even irritation. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 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