Definition

Someone who gets annoyed or upset easily.

Example

She felt irritable after not getting enough sleep last night.

Comparatives & Superlatives

Conversation

I’ve been feeling really irritable lately, especially at work.

That sounds tough. What’s been bothering you?

I think it’s just the stress piling up, which makes me more irritable than usual.

I get that! Maybe you need a break to recharge.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Irritable → It is formed from "irritare" (meaning to provoke or annoy) and the suffix "-able" (meaning capable of). The word "irritable" describes someone who is capable of being provoked or annoyed easily.

Memory Tip

Think of someone who can be easily 'provoked' ('irritare') — that's why they are called irritable.

Visually Confused Words