Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ˌɪrɪtəˈbɪləti/

Definitions

• The state or condition of being easily annoyed or angered.
• A physical or emotional reaction that is characterized by increased sensitivity or responsiveness, often leading to irritation.
• The quality of being susceptible to irritation or discomfort in response to stimuli.

Usage Examples

• "Her irritability grew as the day wore on, especially when she had to deal with long lines."
• "The medication had side effects, including increased irritability."
• "He was known for his short temper and frequent irritability when things didn't go his way."

Etymology

The word "irritability" comes from the Latin word "irritabilis," meaning "able to be excited" or "easily angered," which itself derives from the verb "irritare," meaning "to excite" or "to provoke." The term was first recorded in English in the late 17th century and has been used in both medical and everyday contexts to describe a tendency to become easily upset or sensitive to stimuli.

Synonyms

• Touchiness
• Impatience
• Short-temper
• Petulance
• Edginess
• Crankiness

Antonyms

• Calmness
• Patience
• Tranquility
• Composure
• Equanimity

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• In American English: /ˌɪrɪtəˈbɪləti/
• In British English: /ˌɪrɪtəˈbɪləti/
• In Australian English: /ˌɪrɪtəˈbɪləti/

Historical Usage

The term "irritability" has been used since the 17th century, originally in medical texts to describe the body's heightened sensitivity to stimuli. In medical contexts, it was used to refer to the condition where the nervous system reacts excessively to stimuli, causing discomfort or anger. Over time, the term expanded into common usage to describe emotional and psychological states of sensitivity, particularly in reference to temperamental individuals.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, irritability is seen as a negative trait, often associated with stress, fatigue, or poor mental health. In some societies, being irritable is viewed as a sign of weakness or lack of self-control, while in others, it might be considered a normal reaction to external pressures or challenges. For example, in work environments, high levels of irritability can be seen as a sign of burnout, while in family or social settings, it can be a natural response to stressful situations.

More Information

Irritability, while often associated with negative emotions, can also be a signal of underlying medical conditions such as hormonal imbalances, chronic pain, or neurological disorders. Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and mood disorders can also contribute to heightened irritability. Understanding the root causes of irritability can help individuals manage it more effectively through lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, or medical treatments. The concept of irritability is important not just in emotional health but also in understanding how humans react to various stimuli in their environment.