verb
irritate
IR-ih-tayt/ˈɪrɪteɪt/
To provoke a painful or uncomfortable reaction.
The constant tapping of his pen irritates everyone nearby.
Etymology
Latin irritare covered exciting, provoking, and annoying. English first used the word for rousing or stimulating action, then also for provoking the unpleasant response of annoyance.
In context
Something is starting to irritate his nerves, and that tail is the vent for it. It may be accompanied by abrupt escapes and ears shifting to the back or side.
More examples
- This wool sweater irritates my skin.
- Her repeated interruptions irritated me.
- Smoke can irritate your eyes and throat.
Forms
irritate · irritates · irritated · irritating
irritation noun — Annoyance or soreness caused by something.
irritable adjective — Quick to become annoyed or angry.