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

And because acne-prone skin still needs moisture, the formula pairs two forms of hyaluronic acid with soothing panthenol to replenish hydration and prevent irritation. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 21 Oct. 2026

Baroudi said people who feel irritation from the chemical should shower to wash it off their bodies. — Rebecca Cohen, NBC news, 21 Oct. 2026

Exposure can cause serious respiratory problems, neurological issues and irritation to the skin, eyes and throat, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. — Rebekah Riess, CNN Money, 21 Oct. 2026

Its exact cause is unknown, but immune-system activity, genetics and previous skin damage or irritation may play a role. — Emily Cegielski, Flow Space, 20 Oct. 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