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

Plus, the fabrics are all Oeko-Tex Certified, so your cool sleep experience won’t ever be impacted by any irritation on your skin. —Euna Park, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 May 2026

For people with fine or oily hair types, washing your hair only once a week may lead to scalp irritation and build-up. —Carley Millhone, Health, 25 May 2026

To maximize its benefits and not risk irritation, start by using the product only twice a week, gradually increasing the frequency by combining it with a moisturising and soothing cream. —Beatrice Zocchi, Vogue, 25 May 2026

That was unusually blunt from the typically genial Pritzker, who’s mainly tried to keep a public lid on his obvious irritation with Johnson. —The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 24 May 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