IRRITANTS Synonyms: 57 Similar and Opposite Words

irritants

noun

plural of irritant

as in headaches

something that is a source of irritation the whining child was a constant irritant to his long-suffering parents

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of irritants Sharks are known to rub against reefs, sand, rocks and even the seafloor to remove irritants. — Melissa Cristina Márquez, Forbes.com, 28 July 2026 The signature blend of ceramides works to strengthen and support the skin’s natural barrier, which helps lock in moisture while defending against environmental irritants like pollutants and allergens. — Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 23 July 2026 After swimming, rinse dogs with fresh water to remove chlorine, salt, algae and other irritants. — Lauren Paige Richeson, USA Today, 21 July 2026 It’s made from fabrics that are tightly woven or antimicrobial and can prevent irritants from settling into the fabric. — Jen Christensen, CNN Money, 18 July 2026 Researchers documented officers tackling or pinning people to the ground and using chemical irritants, rubber bullets and tasers. — Brittney Melton, NPR, 16 July 2026 Stifling heat also can trap pollutants, smoke or other irritants, the American Lung Association said. — Don Sweeney, Sacbee.com, 15 July 2026 Doing so will increase the likelihood of heavy metal particles, which can carry lung irritants and carcinogens, being spread and inhaled. — Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2026 Exposure to other irritants, such as dust, chemicals and pollution, can also cause it. — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 27 June 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for irritants

Noun

According to a GoFundMe set up to fund her ongoing treatment, severe headaches and blurred vision were among the initial symptoms Katie experienced before her cancer diagnosis.

— Latoya Gayle, PEOPLE, 15 Aug. 2026
Aviation pro Andres Celis says large roller bags that don’t fit properly in overhead bins can create unnecessary headaches during boarding as crew members try to find a place for them.

— Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 15 Aug. 2026

Definition of headaches

Noun

Others argued that the report seems to cast members of the media as nuisances to be dealt with, while ignoring instances in which journalists were targeted by law enforcement.

— Libor Jany, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2026
The Kansas City City Council approved a trio of ordinances on Thursday aimed at vacant properties that become nuisances and staving off demolition of historic buildings.

— Chris Higgins, Kansas City Star, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of nuisances

Noun

Rather than treating Debra’s frustrations as something distant from her own life, Heaton drew from the reality of raising her own kids while working on the series.

— Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 15 Aug. 2026
But others argue those rookie mistakes and earlier comments − including calls to abolish the police − were eclipsed by Hong's grassroots support and growing frustrations with the party establishment.

— Phillip M. Bailey, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2026

Definition of frustrations

Noun

Their kickers’ health and performance for years have been one of the thorns in the team’s side.

— Pat Leonard, New York Daily News, 13 Aug. 2026
In many species, the pronotum extends over the body to form elaborate shapes that resemble thorns, buds, or other plant structures, providing excellent camouflage.

— Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 9 Aug. 2026

Definition of thorns

Noun

That said, there are some inconveniences around living on a remote island.

— Brittany Chang, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
In fact, Albert Einstein's time-dilating general theory of relativity tends to be little more than an afterthought, with films highlighting the inconveniences of interstellar travel definitely in the minority.

— Richard Edwards, Space.com, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of inconveniences

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irritant

irritants

irritate

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“Irritants.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/irritants. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of irritants

noun

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