allergen

[ al-er-juhn, -jen ]

noun

, Immunology.

1. any substance, often a protein, that induces an allergy: common allergens include pollen, grasses, dust, and some medications.

allergen

/ ˈæləˌdʒɛn /

noun

1. any substance capable of inducing an allergy

allergen

/ ăl′ər-jən /

1. A substance, such as pollen, that causes an allergic reaction.

Derived Forms

• ˌallerˈgenic, adjective
• ˌallergeˈnicity, noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of allergen¹

First recorded in 1910–15; aller(gy) + -gen

Example Sentences

A hefty amount of butter sold at Costco warehouses nationwide has been recalled for containing an “undeclared allergen,” Today reported Monday.

From Salon

He is accused of changing menu prices, adding profanity and making “several menu changes that threatened public health and safety,” particularly by altering allergen information.

From Salon

But there is no evidence nut allergens are spread around the cabin by ventilation systems, the review says.

From BBC

According to the report, allergen labelling was not available for some products on display - posing a risk to customers with food allergies.

From BBC

Lactaid Milk, the popular lactose-free dairy beverage, has been recalled because it may contain an undeclared allergen.

From Salon

Related Words

• antigen
• dander
• irritant
• pollen
• ragweed