1. something that causes annoyance, anger, or impatience
2. a substance that causes irritation to the skin, eyes, or other body parts
Usage: medical

1. causing irritation or annoyance

Examples

• The constant noise from construction was a major irritant to residents.
• His habit of interrupting became an irritant during meetings.
• The soap contained an irritant that caused her skin to break out.
• Pollen can be an irritant for people with allergies.
• She found his irritant behavior difficult to tolerate.
• The chemical fumes were irritant to her eyes and throat.