allergen

American  

[al-er-juhn, -jen] / ˈæl ər dʒən, -ˌdʒɛn /

noun

Immunology.

1. any substance, often a protein, that induces an allergy: common allergens include pollen, grasses, dust, and some medications.

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allergen British  

/ ˈæləˌdʒɛn /

noun

1. any substance capable of inducing an allergy

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allergen Scientific  

/ ăl′ər-jən /

1. A substance, such as pollen, that causes an allergic reaction.

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Other Word Forms

• allergenic adjective
• allergenicity noun

Etymology

Origin of allergen

First recorded in 1910–15; aller(gy) + -gen

Example Sentences

I hold up my corn on the cob, which is fully cooked and free of allergens.

From Literature

But food crimes can pose dangers to human health, because of the presence of potential allergens or toxic chemicals.

From BBC

Suspecting a food sensitivity, my vet recommended a prescription kibble made from hydrolyzed protein, which is broken down into components so small that Bingo’s body wouldn’t recognize them as potential allergens.

From The Wall Street Journal

These chemicals are released by white blood cells when the airways are irritated or exposed to allergens.

From Science Daily

If something does contain common allergens like eggs, dairy or gluten, I’ll note it on the card.

From Salon

Related Words

• antigen
• dander
• irritant
• pollen
• ragweed