ALLERGY Definition & Meaning

View synonyms for

allergy

[al-er-jee]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

plural

allergies

an abnormal reaction of the body to a previously encountered allergen introduced by inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact, often manifested by itchy eyes, runny nose, wheezing, skin rash, or diarrhea.
hypersensitivity to the reintroduction of an allergen.
Informal.��a strong dislike or aversion, as toward a person or activity.
He has an allergy to hard work.

allergy

/ ˈæ��ə��ɪ /

noun

a hypersensitivity to a substance that causes the body to react to any contact with that substance. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen
informal��aversion
he has an allergy to studying

allergy

An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity to certain stimuli such as drugs, foods, environmental irritants, microorganisms, or physical conditions, such as temperature extremes. These stimuli act as antigens, provoking an immunological response involving the release of inflammatory substances, such as histamine, in the body. Allergies may be innate or acquired in genetically predisposed individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, though in some individuals symptoms can be severe.
See also anaphylactic shock

allergy

A highly sensitive reaction of the body to certain substances, such as pollen, that are present in amounts that do not affect most people. Common indications of allergy include sneezing, skin rashes, itching, and runny nose.

Discover More

51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of allergy¹

1910–15; < Greek á�� ( os ) other + -ergy < Greek -ergia, equivalent to é�� ( on ) activity + -ia -y ³

Discover More

51�Թ� History and Origins

Origin of allergy¹

C20: from German Allergie (indicating a changed reaction), from Greek allos other + ergon activity

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

If a patient can’t state their name, they probably also can’t say if they have life-threatening allergies or are taking any medications, said Dr. Chase Coffey, who oversees the hospital’s social work team.

From

The UK food watchdog has warned people with allergies not to buy imported Dubai chocolate if they have any doubts about ingredients because of different labelling standards.

From

However, allergy charities say regardless of where the firms are based more should be done to keep consumers safe.

From

It is estimated that 13 million people in the UK suffer from hay fever - an allergy to different pollens.

From

Her son, Mohammed, who is just over a year old, suffers from asthma and serious food allergies.

From

Related 51�Թ�s

hay fever��

allergist allethrin

Browse