irritations
|ir-ri-ta-tions|
🇺🇸
/ˌɪrɪˈteɪʃənz/
🇬🇧
/ˌɪrɪˈteɪʃ(ə)nz/
(irritation)
annoyance or inflammation
Etymology
'irritation' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'irritatio' (from the verb 'irritare'), where 'irritare' meant 'to excite or provoke'.
'irritation' came into English via Old French (e.g. 'irritacion') and Middle English ('irritacioun'), eventually becoming the modern English word 'irritation'.
Initially, it referred to a stimulation or excitation (physical or emotional); over time it evolved to commonly mean 'annoyance' or a local 'inflammation' (physical soreness).
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
things, often small or repeated, that cause annoyance or bother.
The constant delays and minor irritations made the trip less enjoyable.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 2
physical soreness, inflammation, or uncomfortable reaction of tissue (e.g., skin irritations).
He had several skin irritations after using the new soap.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Noun 3
the state or feeling of being annoyed or bothered (plural used to refer to specific instances or causes).
Her small irritations with the new system grew into a larger complaint.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/12/16 15:46