immune system

noun

, Anatomy.

1. a diffuse, complex network of interacting cells, cell products, and cell-forming tissues that protects the body from pathogens and other foreign substances, destroys infected and malignant cells, and removes cellular debris: the system includes the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes and lymph tissue, stem cells, white blood cells, antibodies, and lymphokines.

immune system

1. The body system in humans and other animals that protects the organism by distinguishing foreign tissue and neutralizing potentially pathogenic organisms or substances. The immune system includes organs such as the skin and mucous membranes, which provide an external barrier to infection, cells involved in the immune response, such as lymphocytes, and cell products such as lymphokines.
2. See also autoimmune disease

immune system

1. The system in the body that works to ward off infection and disease. Central to this system are the white blood cells . Some white blood cells produce antibodies in response to specific antigens that may invade the body; others function as scavengers to fight infection by destroying bacteria and removing dead cells.

Word History and Origins

Origin of immune system¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

Mutated virus may reinfect people already stricken once with covid-19, sparking debate and concernsIn any case, Murphy added, antibodies are only part of a person’s immune system response.

From Washington Post

The adult trials paved much of the way, but researchers still need to study how kids’ immune systems react and to confirm the optimal dosage.

From ProPublica

Changes in immune system markers, like antibodies, in people who are vaccinated comport with what scientists expect in a situation that prevents the virus from setting up shop in people’s airways.

From Vox

The purpose of the vaccine is to trigger your immune system to respond.

From Washington Post

Don’t buy into immune-boosting hacksSome companies are advertising vitamin regimens to strengthen the immune system and boost protection from the vaccine, but there’s no data to suggest any benefits from them.

From Popular-Science

Also due to their unusual immune system, bats can remain healthy and able to travel even while infected.

From The Daily Beast

His immune system was so shot, I was asked to wear a surgical mask during the interview.

From The Daily Beast

Of the over 100 strains, the majority are harmless and a healthy immune system will fight it without a person ever realizing it.

From The Daily Beast

Many of these assertions are deliberately vague, claiming to “support gut health” or “support a healthy immune system.”

From The Daily Beast

“If done chronically, it can lead to a suppressed immune system, chronic fatigue and memory issues,” he says.

From The Daily Beast