allergy

[ˈælərdʒi]

allergy Definition

  • 1a damaging immune response by the body to a substance, especially pollen, fur, a particular food, or dust, to which it has become hypersensitive
  • 2a condition of being hypersensitive to a particular substance, causing an immune response

Using allergy: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "allergy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    I have an allergy to peanuts.

  • Example

    She developed an allergy to cats.

  • Example

    His allergy to pollen makes him sneeze and have watery eyes.

  • Example

    The restaurant has a list of ingredients for customers with allergies.

allergy Synonyms and Antonyms

Phrases with allergy

  • an exaggerated immune response to a substance that is normally harmless

    Example

    He had an allergic reaction to the medication and had to be taken to the hospital.

  • a condition in which the body's immune system reacts to a particular food

    Example

    She has a severe food allergy to shellfish.

  • an allergy that occurs during certain times of the year, usually in response to pollen from trees, grasses, and weeds

    Example

    He suffers from seasonal allergies every spring.

Origins of allergy

from Greek 'allos' meaning 'other' and 'ergon' meaning 'reaction'

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Summary: allergy in Brief

An 'allergy' [ˈælərdʒi] is a damaging immune response by the body to a substance, such as pollen, fur, a particular food, or dust, to which it has become hypersensitive. It can cause symptoms like sneezing, itching, and swelling. Phrases like 'food allergy' and 'seasonal allergy' denote specific types of allergies. The term 'allergic reaction' refers to an exaggerated immune response to a substance that is normally harmless.

How do native speakers use this expression?