sensitization

American  

[sen-si-tuh-zey-shuhn] / ˌsɛn sɪ təˈzeɪ ʃən /

noun

1. the state or process of being sensitized.

2. Psychology. the process of becoming susceptible to a given stimulus that previously had no effect or significance.

3. Immunology.

   1. a state or condition in which a previously encountered foreign substance triggers an immune reaction.

   2. an immunologic state or condition that is evidenced by the acquired ability of a cell or individual to detect the presence of a foreign substance upon reexposure to the substance and to react immunologically.

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Other Word Forms

• nonsensitization
  noun
• resensitization
  noun

Etymology

Origin of sensitization

First recorded in 1885–90; sensitize + -ation

Explanation

Feeling more sensitive these days? It might be the result of sensitization, the process of making someone react to something that previously had no effect. The noun sensitization is formed from the verb sensitize, which in turn comes from the adjective sensitive, meaning "capable of sensation." In psychology talk, a person might develop a sensitization from an emotional situation. For example, a child who is verbally bullied on a regular basis might, through constant fear of attack, develop a sensitization toward other children and become more withdrawn.

Example Sentences

Sensitization can also result from CNS changes that lead to hyperactivity of pain-transmission pathways.

From Scientific American • Oct. 10, 2021

Sensitization can be measured in a skin prick test.

From Reuters • Dec. 28, 2011

Sensitization can also be measured in a skin prick test.

From Reuters • Dec. 27, 2011

Sensitization to animal proteins is much the more frequent.

From Northern Nut Growers Association, report of the proceedings at the eighth annual meeting Stamford, Connecticut, September 5 and 6, 1917 by Northern Nut Growers Association

Sensitization to proteins came to light in the first instance through the study of therapeutic sera, and has been found to have unexpectedly wide bearings.

From Food Poisoning by Jordan, Edwin Oakes