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

If itching, odor, hair loss or skin irritation keeps coming back, talk to your veterinarian rather than reaching for another product. — Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 19 Sep. 2026

My feelings about Dudamel as an interpreter have ranged from irritation at his turn-it-up-to-11 showiness to admiration for his ability to make listeners hear music afresh. — Justin Davidson, Vulture, 18 Sep. 2026

While that water is safe under federal standards, some people notice dryness or irritation from prolonged exposure during showers. — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 16 Sep. 2026

The Marlins placed Fairbanks on the 15-day IL with the right median nerve irritation injury that led to IL stints in late April and late August. — Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 15 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