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

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

In a response to Expressen, the Liberal party minister confirmed it was phobia, but described the impact it has on her as "sort of an allergy" and "something I'm getting professional help for".

From BBC

Fauci was formerly the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and during the COVID-19 pandemic became the center of multiple conspiracy theories.

From Salon

Rachael Evans, 37, said the lack of care given to her grandmother was "unbelievable" - including giving her penicillin despite an allergy and diagnosing her with cancer and Parkinson's disease without informing the family.

From BBC

Nitazenes were also found in substances masquerading as promethazine, an allergy medication.

From BBC

Related Words

• hay fever