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

Exposure to poor air can lead to eye, throat, and nose irritation, coughing, chest tightness, or shortness of breath. —Amanda Greenwood, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Nov. 2025

He was then listed as probable for Sunday’s game in Philadelphia with what the Heat labeled as left hip irritation before playing and scoring a game-high 32 points in 29 minutes during the Heat’s victory over the 76ers. —Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 25 Nov. 2025

As with any acid, overuse or combining it with other harsh acids can lead to skin irritation. —Tish Weinstock, Vogue, 25 Nov. 2025

Look out for signs of irritation, and gradually increase use (up to every other night) according to your skin's tolerance. —Grace McCarty, Glamour, 25 Nov. 2025

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