Irritation

/ˌɪrɪˈteɪʃən/

Meaning & Definition

noun
The state of feeling annoyed, impatient, or slightly angry.
Her constant interruptions caused a great deal of irritation during the meeting.
A physical discomfort or inflammation.
The cream helped soothe the irritation on her skin.
An action or occurrence that causes annoyance.
The loud noise outside was a persistent irritation to the residents.

Etymology

From Latin 'irritatio', derived from 'irritare', meaning to provoke.

Common Phrases and Expressions

pet peeve
A particular thing that annoys someone.
raise my ire
To provoke someone's anger or irritation.
getting on my nerves
To be very annoying to someone.

Related Words

irritate
To cause annoyance or discomfort.
irritating
Causing irritation or annoyance.
irritably
In a manner showing annoyance or frustration.

Slang Meanings

Peeve
My biggest peeve is when people chew loudly.
Nuisance
That guy is such a nuisance; he’s always complaining.