irritation

noun

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

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 One of its toxic components is benzene, which can cause conditions ranging from skin irritation to cancer. Travis Loller, Fortune Europe, 19 Apr. 2024 Adding to families' irritation is the fact that this year's class graduated high school in spring 2020. Kelly Meyerhofer, Journal Sentinel, 18 Apr. 2024 But in the Best Way Hair Nicole Kidman Changed Her Hair Color — and, Apparently, Her Entire Vibe Editor's Tip: Dr. King says that most tranexamic acid products can be applied twice daily, but those with very sensitive skin could experience irritation or dryness. Jennifer Hussein, Allure, 10 Apr. 2024 The cars were carrying cargo that included hazardous materials such as vinyl chloride and butyl acrylate, which are known to cause adverse health effects, including respiratory irritation and even certain cancers, with prolonged exposure. Minyvonne Burke, NBC News, 9 Apr. 2024 The 98% natural primer also helps to soothe tightness, flaky patches, and irritation thanks to soothing Asiatic pennywort. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 4 Apr. 2024 Natural Dog Company Skin & Coat Skin irritations, allergies, and other skin problems are common occurrences for most dogs, but Skin & Coat from Natural Dog Company is designed to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthier than ever before. Edward Munch, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024 The best socks for kids are durable, affordable, and fit comfortably to protect feet from irritation, blisters, and sweat while keeping them warm and cozy. Maya Polton, Parents, 28 Mar. 2024 Pros: Hypoallergenic formulas are less likely to cause skin irritations. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 3 Apr. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'irritation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near irritation

Cite this Entry

“Irritation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/irritation. Accessed 23 Apr. 2024.

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

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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