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 Pros: Hypoallergenic formulas are less likely to cause skin irritations. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024 Any residual dampness could cause more product to be absorbed and amp up the irritation factor. Krissy Brady, SELF, 2 Apr. 2024 The full-length zipper has a chafe guard to prevent irritation. Olivia Avitt, Peoplemag, 1 Apr. 2024 The skin on her tush and legs has rashes and is peeling where the tight material of the diaper rubs — a skin irritation that won't go away. Elissa Nadworny, NPR, 28 Mar. 2024 Chemicals in scented products can create headaches, nausea, upper respiratory problems, and skin irritation. Christopher Elliott, USA TODAY, 22 Mar. 2024 Rosemary oil—the ingredient known to promote hair growth—is key here, plus biotin, peppermint and tea tree oils which help relieve scalp irritation, reduce flakiness, and enhance hair's manageability. Kiana Murden, Vogue, 15 Mar. 2024 Have your baby assessed by a pediatrician for any ongoing diaper rash or irritation issues. Chaunie Brusie, Rn, Parents, 10 Mar. 2024 Also, the formula contains salicylates, which can cause irritation for people with sensitive skin. Danielle Zoellner, Verywell Health, 26 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'irritation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near irritation

Cite this Entry

“Irritation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irritation. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

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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