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

The main ingredients include gentle exfoliating acids like lactic acid and salicylic acid, plus hydrating panthenol and soothing allantoin to minimize irritation and redness. — Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 23 June 2026

Snag the Cetaphil Healthy Renew Anti-Aging Face Serum to get the benefits of retinol without the dryness and irritation. — Lauren Taylor, Southern Living, 22 June 2026

Smoke is smoke, and any smoke exposure can cause temporary irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. — Chelsea Hylton, CBS News, 22 June 2026

Occasional irritation is common, but persistent symptoms may signal something more. — Charlotte Observer, 22 June 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