antigen — a substance that causes the body to produce antibodies when it enters the body
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a substance that causes the body to produce antibodies when it enters the body
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈæntɪdʒən/
Example Sentences
- The COVID-19 antigen test gave results faster than my pizza delivery.
- Scientists identified a new antigen that could be used in cancer treatment.
- My immune system treats peanuts like dangerous antigens, which is why I carry an EpiPen.
antigen
NOUN[/ˈæntɪdʒən/]
a substance that causes the body to produce antibodies when it enters the body
The lab technician identifies the antigen triggering the immune response under the microscope.
Antigen reacts between hydrogen and nitrogen!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The term 'antigen' was coined in 1908 to describe a substance that stimulates the production of antibodies in an organism. It derives from the Greek elements 'anti-' (against) and '-gen' (to produce), literally meaning 'that which produces against,' reflecting the immune system's defensive response to foreign substances.
Breakdown
anti- (against) + -gen (to produce, generate). The word combines the Greek prefix meaning 'opposed to' or 'against' with the suffix denoting generation or production, describing molecules that provoke antibody formation.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The COVID-19 antigen test gave results faster than my pizza delivery.”
“Scientists identified a new antigen that could be used in cancer treatment.”
“My immune system treats peanuts like dangerous antigens, which is why I carry an EpiPen.”
“The vaccine works by exposing your body to harmless antigens so it learns to fight the real disease.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.