# ire

/ˈaɪɹ/ (US) · /ˈaɪə/ (UK) · CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ire
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a very strong feeling of anger. It is a formal word used to describe someone who is extremely annoyed or furious.

For teachers: intense anger or wrath. Often used in journalistic or literary contexts to describe public or official outrage.

## Examples

- The new tax law drew the ire of local business owners.
- The manager's decision to cut holiday bonuses drew the ire of the entire staff.
- The government's refusal to address the housing crisis has sparked widespread ire among young voters, who feel their concerns are being systematically ignored by the ruling party.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used with the verbs 'draw', 'spark', 'arouse', or 'provoke'.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.