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

• 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

Improper use of at-home ear seeding kits can cause irritation, dizziness, or allergic reactions. —Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 14 Oct. 2025

By virtue of its lack of carbs, clear protein doesn’t contain any lactose—a sugar found in dairy that can cause digestive irritation in some people, like bloating and diarrhea. —Caroline Tien, SELF, 13 Oct. 2025

There was also, perhaps, general irritation at the idea that such a successful team should be the recipient of so much dumb luck. —Louisa Thomas, New Yorker, 12 Oct. 2025

The chronic condition can cause irritation but flare-ups can be managed through diet, as well as ointments or creams. —Madison E. Goldberg, PEOPLE, 9 Oct. 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