irritate
UK: ˈɪrɪteɪt | US: ˈɪrɪteɪt
vt. to provoke impatience, anger, or discomfort
vt. to cause inflammation or soreness in a body part
vi. (archaic) to excite or stimulate
irritate = ir<in, intensive> + rit<excite, provoke> + ate<verb suffix>
- ir<in, intensive>: Latin prefix intensifying the root meaning (variant of "in-").
- rit<excite, provoke>: From Latin irritare ("to excite, provoke"), possibly derived from ritus ("agitation").
- ate<verb suffix>: Latin -atus, forming verbs indicating action.
Etymology Origin:
"Irritate" traces back to Latin irritare, meaning "to excite or provoke." The prefix ir- (an assimilated form of in-) adds emphasis, while -rit- conveys agitation. Over time, the word evolved from general excitement to specifically denote provocation of annoyance or physical inflammation, reflecting a narrowing of meaning.
Loud noises irritate her when she’s trying to concentrate.
The rough fabric irritated his skin, causing a rash.
His constant interruptions began to irritate the entire team.
Harsh chemicals can irritate the eyes if not handled carefully.
The delay irritated passengers waiting at the airport.