immunity Definition
- 1the ability of an organism to resist a particular infection or toxin by the action of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells
- 2protection or exemption from something, especially an obligation or penalty
Using immunity: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "immunity" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The vaccine provides immunity against the disease.
Example
He claimed diplomatic immunity and was released.
Example
The company enjoyed immunity from prosecution due to its cooperation with the authorities.
immunity Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for immunity
Antonyms for immunity
Phrases with immunity
immunity that is naturally present in an organism, either through inherited genetic factors or acquired through exposure to pathogens
Example
Some people have natural immunity to certain diseases.
immunity that is gained by an organism after exposure to a pathogen or through vaccination
Example
After getting vaccinated, she developed acquired immunity to the virus.
a form of indirect protection from infectious disease that occurs when a large percentage of a population becomes immune to the disease, reducing the likelihood of an outbreak
Example
Herd immunity can be achieved through vaccination or through natural infection.
Origins of immunity
from Latin 'immunitas', meaning exemption from public service
Summary: immunity in Brief
The term 'immunity' [ɪˈmjuːnɪti] refers to the ability of an organism to resist infection or toxin, or protection from an obligation or penalty. It can be natural or acquired, as in 'The vaccine provides immunity against the disease.' 'Immunity' can also refer to exemption from prosecution or other obligations, as in 'He claimed diplomatic immunity and was released.'