Meaning & Definition of word "Irritable"

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.