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Allergy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An allergy is an immune system reaction to a harmless substance, such as pollen or food, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, or rashes. It varies in severity among individuals.

allergy

/ˈælɚdʒi/ /ˈælədʒi/

Definition:

A hypersensitive immune response to a substance, causing symptoms like sneezing or rashes.

Synonyms:

hypersensitivity, sensitivity, intolerance

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

immunity, tolerance

Common Collocations:

food allergy, allergy symptoms, allergy medication, seasonal allergy, allergy test

Derivatives:

allergic, allergist

Usage Tips:

Use "allergy" to describe adverse immune reactions, not dislikes (e.g., "I have a peanut allergy," not "I have an allergy to homework").

Common Phrases:

allergic reaction, allergy season, deathly allergy

Etymology:

From Greek "allos" (other) + "ergon" (work), coined in 1906 by Clemens von Pirquet.

Examples:

  • 1. She has a severe allergy to pollen.
  • 2. His allergy causes itchy eyes and sneezing.
  • 3. Avoid nuts if you have a peanut allergy.
  • 4. The doctor prescribed medicine for her dust allergy.

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