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

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

The researchers analysed nearly 3,000 cases and 413, including two deaths, were caused by one of the eight emerging food allergies.

From BBC

Sweet gums, out; They’re also invasive, triggering allergies, and dropping nasty, spiky balls like alien spoor.

From Los Angeles Times

He said that the hospital has lost records of his recent allergy shots, which he now has to repeat, and he has to wait longer for appointments.

From Salon

Related Words

• hay fever