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

Being outside when the AQI is that high can have harmful health effects, including shortness of breath, throat irritation, itchy eyes, dizziness, fatigue, and a headache. — Chantelle Lee, Time, 17 July 2026

But an overpopulation of these little critters can trigger irritation, inflammation and even more serious eye conditions if left untreated. — Alyssa Goldberg, USA Today, 16 July 2026

Using multiple active ingredients at once can increase the risk of irritation, so Bialas generally recommends choosing a product where retinol is the main active ingredient. — Amber Sayer, Health, 15 July 2026

It’s enhanced with hypochlorous acid, which helps reduce redness and irritation, and is safe to use on sensitive skin. — Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 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