irritation

noun

ir·​ri·​ta·​tion ˌir-ə-ˈtā-shən How to pronounce irritation (audio)
Synonyms of irritationnext
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

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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
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.
Similarly, some people experience anger, sadness, and fear as different versions of bad, while others experience each one distinctly—and can make even finer distinctions among, say, anger, irritation, and frustration. — Angela Haupt, Time, 11 Aug. 2026 For sensitive skin, probiotics help calm irritation and reinforce the skin barrier. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Kansas City Star, 11 Aug. 2026 Some products on the market contain up to 12% hydrogen peroxide — those must be diluted to avoid irritation or chemical burns. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 11 Aug. 2026 The department explained that the invasive flatworms can release toxins that can cause skin irritation. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for irritation

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

Rhymes for irritation

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Browse Nearby Words

irritating
irritation
irritative
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Cite this Entry

“Irritation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irritation. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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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
: irritant entry 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

Nglish: Translation of irritation for Spanish Speakers

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