Allergic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Science

• There are over 50 million people in the United States with allergies, impacting various aspects of daily life.
• Common allergens include pollen, peanuts, shellfish, and dust mites, triggering reactions from sneezing to more severe issues.
• Allergies occur when the immune system mistakenly identifies a harmless substance as a threat.

Psychology

• Anxiety can worsen allergy symptoms, as stress may exacerbate the body's immune response.
• Some studies suggest a link between allergies and psychological conditions like depression and anxiety disorders.
• People with allergies often report higher levels of stress due to managing their triggers and symptoms.

Pop Culture

• Allergies are a common theme in sitcoms and movies, often used for comedic effect, such as characters having exaggerated reactions.
• Celebrity endorsements often highlight allergy medications, showcasing their importance in everyday life.
• Various contemporary songs and books mention allergies, illustrating their prevalence in modern society.

Literature

• Allergies and health conditions often serve as metaphors in literature, representing vulnerability and the human condition.
• In children's literature, characters with allergies often learn about acceptance and awareness of their environment.
• Classic novels sometimes feature characters whose allergies symbolize societal or personal conflicts.

Main points about word origin

• The word 'allergic' comes from the Greek word 'allergia,' which means 'a reaction to other.'
• It was first used in the early 20th century to describe unusual responses of the immune system.
• The prefix 'all-' denotes 'other' while '-ergic' relates to work or activity, indicating the body reacting to unfamiliar substances.

The word 'allergic' originates from the Greek word 'allos', meaning 'other, different', and 'ergon', meaning 'work, action'. It was coined in the early 20th century to describe a state of heightened sensitivity to environmental agents or substances. The term has evolved to encompass various conditions where the immune system reacts inappropriately to normally harmless substances, characterize as allergies. The popularity of the term increased during the rise of allergy research and awareness in the 1960s and 1970s, leading to a better understanding of immunology, the human body's response to allergens, and the development of treatments and preventions that address allergic conditions.

Ranked #11,140, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

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