allergy

[ al-er-jee ]

noun

, plural al·ler·gies.

1. 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.
2. hypersensitivity to the reintroduction of an allergen. Compare anaphylaxis.
3. Informal. a strong dislike or aversion, as toward a person or activity:

   He has an allergy to hard work.

allergy

/ ˈælədʒɪ /

noun

1. 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
2. informal.
   aversion

   he has an allergy to studying

allergy

/ ăl′ər-jē /

1. 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.
2. See also anaphylactic shock

allergy

1. 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.

Word History and Origins

Origin of allergy¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of allergy¹

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

Example Sentences

“Yeah, considering the fact that I have to deal with this exact allergy in my day-to-day cooking, the fact that this is getting mocked is kinda concerning to me,” said user u/Colaymorak.

From Salon

Emails reportedly sent in advance of official visits, including to a VIP lunch, ask for "no bananas" to be allowed on certain premises and refer to Brandberg having a "strong allergy" to the fruit.

From BBC

They are strong antioxidants, which have been shown to have protective effects against bacteria, viruses, allergies, inflammation and cancer.

From Salon

The complaint alleges that Scheuer manipulated allergen notifications to indicate that certain items were safe for people with peanut allergies when they were not.

From Salon

Venegas said she now has frequent headaches and allergies because of the dirty air.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• hay fever