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nonself

American

[non-self] / nɒnˈsɛlf /

noun

Immunology.

any antigen-bearing foreign material that enters the body and normally stimulates an attack by the body's immune system (distinguished from self).

Etymology

Origin of nonself

First recorded in 1870–75; non- + self

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Not long after researchers proved that plants can distinguish "self" from "nonself" roots, she tested whether they could also pick out and favor kin.

From Science Magazine • Jan. 3, 2019

Antigens are nonself molecules, usually large proteins, which provoke an immune response.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

Because the arms of the Y-shaped antibodies attach randomly to more than one nonself erythrocyte surface, they form clumps of erythrocytes.

From Textbooks • Jun. 19, 2013

On the molecular level, the distinction between self and nonself disappears in a blur of semipermeable membranes.

From Time Magazine Archive

"They have the ability to distinguish between self and nonself, which is the crucial distinction."

From Time Magazine Archive

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023