irritate (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /ˈɪrɪteɪt/

Definition

To make someone feel slightly angry or annoyed, or to cause a physical discomfort or inflammation.

Examples

• The constant buzzing of the fly started to irritate her.

• His dry skin was irritated by the rough fabric.

• Don't let small things irritate you too much.

How to Use irritate

irritate someone (collocation)

To make a person feel annoyed or angry. — "His rude comments continued to irritate her."

irritate something (collocation)

To cause physical discomfort or inflammation to a part of the body. — "The pollen irritated his eyes and nose."

Synonyms of irritate

Words with a similar meaning to irritate:

• annoy
• bother
• exasperate
• aggravate

Antonyms of irritate

Words with the opposite meaning to irritate:

• soothe
• please

Browse the full Anaversity dictionary