Irritable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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irritable
[ษชหrษชtษbl ]
Definitions
mood
Having or showing a tendency to be easily annoyed or made angry.
Synonyms
cranky, grumpy, peevish, testy, touchy.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| irritable |
Used to describe someone who is easily annoyed or made angry, especially from minor problems or simple discomfort. This word is fairly neutral in tone.
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| grumpy |
Typically used to refer to someone who is in a bad mood or does not want to be bothered. It has a slight negative connotation but is often used affectionately.
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| cranky |
Commonly used in informal situations to describe someone, often a child, who is bad-tempered. It is a less serious and more playful term.
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| testy |
Used to describe someone who gets angry or annoyed easily and quickly. It has a moderately negative connotation and is often used in more formal contexts.
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| peevish |
A more formal term for someone who is easily irritated, often by trivial things. It has a slightly stronger negative connotation.
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| touchy |
Describes someone who is very sensitive and easily offended, especially about certain topics. It can also refer to being physically sensitive.
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Examples of usage
- He was in an irritable mood all day.
- The irritable customer complained about everything.
- Her irritable behavior was starting to affect those around her.
physiology
Easily provoked to abnormal action or function.
Synonyms
reactive, responsive, sensitive.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| irritable |
Used to describe someone who gets annoyed or angered easily, often in situations that might not bother others.
|
| sensitive |
Describes someone who is easily affected by emotions or external factors, can be used positively or negatively. Also used to describe someone who is empathetic.
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| reactive |
Describes someone or something that responds to stimuli or changes in the environment, often quickly. Can be neutral or slightly negative if the reactions are not well thought out.
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| responsive |
Used in a positive sense to describe someone who reacts quickly and positively to requests or changes.
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Examples of usage
- The irritable bowel syndrome causes discomfort and pain.
- His irritable cough was a symptom of the underlying illness.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Irritability can be a common symptom of stress, anxiety, or depression, highlighting emotional struggles.
- Studies show that lack of sleep can significantly increase irritability, emphasizing the importance of rest.
- Certain personality types, such as those high in neuroticism, may be more prone to feeling irritable regularly.
Health
- Irritability can also be linked to physical health conditions, like thyroid issues, which influence mood changes.
- Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty or menstruation, can lead to increased irritability in some individuals.
- Long-term irritability may be a sign of underlying conditions, like chronic fatigue syndrome or fibromyalgia.
Cultural References
- In literature, characters that are easily irritated often serve as comic relief, illustrating human flaws humorously.
- Movies and TV shows frequently depict irritable characters to evoke both empathy and humor from audiences.
- Cultural sayings often highlight the common experience of irritability, such as 'a weary soul knows no patience.'
Everyday Situations
- Common triggers for irritability include hunger, fatigue, and overwhelming environments, relatable to personal experiences.
- People often use coping mechanisms, like taking breaks or practicing deep breathing, to manage feelings of irritability.
- Family dynamics can be challenging; irritability can arise during stressful times, highlighting the importance of communication.
Origin of 'irritable'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Latin 'irritabilis,' meaning 'to provoke or excite.'
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, showing how long humans have dealt with feelings of annoyance.
- Related words include 'irritate,' which also stems from the same Latin root, emphasizing the connection between provocation and irritation.
The word 'irritable' comes from the Latin word 'irritabilis', which means easily excited or provoked. It has been used in English since the 17th century to describe someone who is easily annoyed or provoked. The physiological use of the word to describe abnormal action or function dates back to the 18th century.
See also: irritably, irritated, irritating, irritatingly, irritation, irritator.