Definition
noun
(physiology) The ability of the cell to receive and respond to a stimulus.
(pathology) The excessive sensitivity of a bodily organ or part to a stimulus; undue susceptibility to the influence of a stimulus.
(general) The quality or state of being irritable.
Supplement
In physiology, irritability is exhibited by certain cells, such as muscle cells, neurons, and endocrine cells.
Word origin: From Latin irritabilitas
Related forms: irritable (adjective)
Synonym:
- excitability (def: physiology)
See also: irritation
