nonself

[ non-self ]

noun

, Immunology.

1. any antigen-bearing foreign material that enters the body and normally stimulates an attack by the body's immune system ( self ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of nonself¹

First recorded in 1870–75; non- + self

Example Sentences

The human immune system is remarkably good at distinguishing between “self” and “nonself,” and when it detects a foreign entity—whether a virus, a strange bacterium or someone else’s internal organ—it mounts an attack.

From Scientific American

One recent week, our members played such seven-letter words as “blankie,” “hirsute” and “nonself” and many more common, shorter words.

From Washington Post

Rather it is a loss of, or seeing through, or letting go of, the delusions of self and agency, and the acceptance of impermanence, suffering and nonself.

From Scientific American

Not long after researchers proved that plants can distinguish "self" from "nonself" roots, she tested whether they could also pick out and favor kin.

From Science Magazine

“All bacteria were clearly ‘nonself’ so simply had to be recognized and dealt with.

From New York Times