adj
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irate
eye-RAYT
Irate (adj) means Extremely angry, especially in a way that's directed at someone or something specific. Example: “The irate customer demanded to speak to a manager.”
adj
1
Extremely angry, especially in a way that's directed at someone or something specific.
"The irate customer demanded to speak to a manager."
"He left an irate voicemail after his flight got cancelled."
How to use irate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishFurious — properly, visibly angry, usually with someone.
Common mistake
Irate is stronger and more pointed than "annoyed" — reserve it for real anger, not mild irritation.
Common pairings
irate customer
irate email
become irate
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more irate, irater
- Superlative
- most irate, iratest
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ customer demanded to speak to a manager.
Etymology
From Latin īrātus ("angered"), from īra ("anger, wrath").
Synonyms
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Rhymes for irate
See all rhymes for irate →Frequently asked questions
What does “irate” mean?
The word “irate” means extremely angry, especially in a way that's directed at someone or something specific. In plain terms, furious — properly, visibly angry, usually with someone.
How do you pronounce “irate”?
“Irate” is pronounced eye-RAYT (/aɪˈɹeɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “irate” in a sentence?
Here is “irate” used in a sentence: “The irate customer demanded to speak to a manager.”
What part of speech is “irate”?
“Irate” is an adjective.
Where does the word “irate” come from?
The word “irate” comes from Latin. From Latin īrātus ("angered"), from īra ("anger, wrath").
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