acquired immunity

American  

noun

Immunology.

1. immunity arising from exposure to antigens.

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acquired immunity British  

noun

1. the immunity produced by exposure of an organism to antigens, which stimulates the production of antibodies

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acquired immunity Scientific  

1. Immunity that is not inherited. Acquired immunity can be active or passive.

2. ◆ Active immunity results from the development of antibodies in response to an antigen, as from exposure to an infectious disease or through vaccination.

3. ◆ Passive immunity results from the transmission of antibodies, as from mother to fetus through the placenta or by the injection of antiserum.

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Etymology

Origin of acquired immunity

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

Still, infections are at relative lows lately thanks in part to acquired immunity from infections and vaccines.

From Salon • Mar. 8, 2025

These broadly reactive antibodies likely represent a common mechanism of acquired immunity to severe malaria and offer novel insights for the design of a PfEMP1-based vaccine or treatment targeting severe malaria.

From Science Daily • Nov. 20, 2024

Still, the combination of acquired immunity through prior infection and vaccination — plus the refined boosters — have Mr. Biden hoping for a better winter this time.

From Washington Times • Oct. 25, 2022

The decision came as countries across the bloc were loosening restrictions in response to the current rates of vaccination and naturally acquired immunity.

From New York Times • May 11, 2022

The inactive, non-virulent organisms in one race will become virulent in some other race which has not acquired immunity to that specific organism.

From Peking Dust by La Motte, Ellen Newbold