allergy

[al-er-jee]

noun

plural

allergies 

1. an abnormal reaction of the body to a previously encountered allergen introduced by inhalation, ingestion, injection, or skin contact, often manifested by itchy eyes, runny nose, wheezing, skin rash, or diarrhea.

2. hypersensitivity to the reintroduction of an allergen.

3. Informal.,  a strong dislike or aversion, as toward a person or activity.

   He has an allergy to hard work.

allergy

/ ˈælədʒɪ /

noun

1. a hypersensitivity to a substance that causes the body to react to any contact with that substance. Hay fever is an allergic reaction to pollen

2. informal,  aversion

   he has an allergy to studying

allergy

1. An abnormally high immunologic sensitivity to certain stimuli such as drugs, foods, environmental irritants, microorganisms, or physical conditions, such as temperature extremes. These stimuli act as antigens, provoking an immunological response involving the release of inflammatory substances, such as histamine, in the body. Allergies may be innate or acquired in genetically predisposed individuals. Common symptoms include sneezing, itching, and skin rashes, though in some individuals symptoms can be severe.

2. See also anaphylactic shock

allergy

1. A highly sensitive reaction of the body to certain substances, such as pollen, that are present in amounts that do not affect most people. Common indications of allergy include sneezing, skin rashes, itching, and runny nose.

Word History and Origins

Origin of allergy¹

1910–15; < Greek áll ( os ) other + -ergy < Greek -ergia, equivalent to érg ( on ) activity + -ia -y ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of allergy¹

C20: from German Allergie (indicating a changed reaction), from Greek allos other + ergon activity

Example Sentences

Jayden Poole, 17, who has an allergy to milk, said her mother would previously not allow her to eat anything from a bakery or sandwich shop because labels "couldn't be relied on".

From BBC

Attendee Lien Nguyen, whose love for the kittens overrode her cat allergy, admitted she’d drop her book the second a cat came into her vicinity.

From Los Angeles Times

Puppy Spot opposed the bill, writing in a letter to lawmakers that it would dismantle a system they say works for families — particularly those seeking specific breeds for allergy concerns.

From Los Angeles Times

Luis developed a rash, but at the medical clinic he was given allergy medication and sleeping pills.

From Los Angeles Times

Although it's becoming more common, people with a pea allergy are finding it's not taken as seriously as other allergies.

From BBC

Related Words

• hay fever