irritant
|ir/ri/tant|
B2
/ˈɪrɪtənt/
causing discomfort
Etymology
Etymology Information
'irritant' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'irritare,' where 'irrit-' meant 'to excite or provoke.'
Historical Evolution
'irritare' transformed into the French word 'irritant,' and eventually became the modern English word 'irritant' through Middle English.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to provoke or excite,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'causing discomfort or annoyance.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a substance that causes slight inflammation or other discomfort to the body.
The chemical is a known skin irritant.
Synonyms
Adjective 1
causing irritation or annoyance.
The irritant noise from the construction site was unbearable.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41