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Definition of irritant

irritant

/ˈɪrɪtənt/
ir · ri · tant
Plural:irritants
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irritant Lexical Profile

irritant Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A chemical, biological, or physical substance that causes slight inflammation, soreness, or allergic reaction upon contact with the body.

Example

"Airborne pollen and dust mites are common household irritants that can trigger seasonal allergies."

2

A person, situation, or thing that causes continual annoyance, impatience, or mild anger.

Example

"The constant hum of the faulty air conditioner became a major irritant during the afternoon exam."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• adjective

1

Causing slight inflammation, soreness, or physical discomfort to a part of the body.

Example

"Workers must wear protective gloves and goggles when handling irritant chemicals in the laboratory."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for irritant
Antonyms
View all antonyms for irritant

• Rhymes for irritant

• Nearby Words

irritableness
irritably
irritancy
irritant
irritate
irritatedly
irritating

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the mid-17th century from Latin irritans, the present participle of irritare ('to excite, provoke, or annoy').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Irritant. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/irritant
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