allergen — a substance that causes an allergic reaction
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a substance that causes an allergic reaction
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈælərʤən/
Example Sentences
- The restaurant's menu clearly labels all major allergens like nuts, dairy, and shellfish.
- My cat is apparently an allergen with legs - I love her but my nose disagrees.
- Scientists are developing new treatments to help the immune system tolerate common allergens.
allergen
NOUN[/ˈælərʤən/]
a substance that causes an allergic reaction
A single peanut on her plate becomes a dangerous allergen for the child.
From allergen to pathogen to antigen - microscopic threats revealed!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The term was coined in 1906 by German physician Clemens von Pirquet, combining Greek 'allos' (other, different) and 'ergon' (action, work) to create 'allergen,' literally meaning 'that which produces an altered reaction.' It describes a substance that triggers an abnormal immune response in the body.
Breakdown
allo- (Greek 'allos': other, different) + -erg- (Greek 'ergon': action, work) + -en (agent noun suffix: substance or thing that produces an action).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The restaurant's menu clearly labels all major allergens like nuts, dairy, and shellfish.”
“My cat is apparently an allergen with legs - I love her but my nose disagrees.”
“Scientists are developing new treatments to help the immune system tolerate common allergens.”
“He discovered that his mysterious rash was caused by an unlikely allergen: his new lucky socks.”
📚Related Words
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