itches; itched; itching
1
: to have or produce an unpleasant feeling on your skin or inside your mouth, nose, etc. that makes you want to scratch
My back really itches.
His eyes began to burn and itch because of his allergies.
My nose itches. [=I have an itchy nose]
This sweater makes me itch.
Most rashes itch.
2
informal
: to have a strong desire to do something or for something
—always used as (be) itching
I'm itching to get started in my garden again. [=I'm very eager to begin working in my garden again]
She was itching for a fight.
He seemed to be itching for an excuse to say something rude.
plural itches
1
: an uncomfortable or unpleasant feeling on your skin or inside your mouth, nose, etc., that makes you want to scratch
I had a slight itch on my back.
Scratching only makes the itch worse.
2
somewhat informal
: a constant and strong desire for something or to do something
She's always had an itch for adventure.
He has an itch to travel.
Cite this Entry
“Itch.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/itch. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.
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