Meaning & Definition of word "Irritable"

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    Irritable

    /ˈɪrɪtəbl/

    adjective:

    • 1. easily annoyed or angered.
      • Example: After a long day at work, she became irritable and snapped at her coworkers.
    • 2. characterized by a state of nervous excitement or restlessness.
      • Example: The child's irritable behavior was a result of lack of sleep.
    • 3. quick to respond to stimuli; sensitive.
      • Example: His irritable skin reacted badly to the harsh soap.

    Etymology

    from Latin 'irritabilis', meaning 'to provoke or excite'

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    irritable bowel syndrome:

    a gastrointestinal disorder causing cramping, abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and diarrhea or constipation

    irritable temperament:

    a personality trait characterized by frequent annoyance or easily losing one's temper

    Related Words

    irritation:

    the state of being annoyed or angry

    irritant:

    a substance that causes annoyance or discomfort

    irritability:

    the quality of being irritable

    Slang Meanings of irritable

    Meaning: cranky

    Example Sentence: After a sleepless night, she's feeling pretty cranky.

    Meaning: snappy

    Example Sentence: He was snappy with me all day, clearly in an irritable mood.