irritation

noun

ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce irritation (audio)
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

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While prolonged exposure to Castile soap (think jobs that require your hands to be submerged in Castile soap formulas for an extended period of time) can cause skin irritation and dryness, the gentle, fragrance-free formula typically doesn’t cause irritation when used properly. Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 2 Oct. 2025 Betaine and glycerin work to support the skin barrier, while antioxidants soothe any existing irritation. Grace McCarty, Glamour, 1 Oct. 2025 Rubbing Your Eyes Rubbing your eyes might provide immediate relief for itchiness or irritation, but this habit can cause lasting damage. Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 30 Sep. 2025 Acute exposure may cause drowsiness, dizziness and headaches, as well as eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation, and unconsciousness at high levels. Noelle Phillips, Denver Post, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for irritation

Word History

First Known Use

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of irritation was in the 15th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Irritation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irritation. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

irritation

noun
ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce irritation (audio)
1
: the act of irritating : the state of being irritated
2

Medical Definition

irritation

noun
ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce irritation (audio)
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

More from Merriam-Webster on irritation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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