Allergy Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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allergy
[ˈælərdʒi ]
Definitions
medical condition
An allergy is a reaction by your immune system to something that does not bother most other people. People who have allergies often are sensitive to more than one thing.
Synonyms
hypersensitivity, sensitivity.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| allergy |
Use when someone has a medical condition that causes them to react badly to certain foods, substances, or environmental factors.
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| hypersensitivity |
Utilized in medical or scientific contexts to describe an extreme sensitivity of the immune system, which can cause allergic reactions or other adverse responses.
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| sensitivity |
Broad term used in everyday language to describe a heightened reaction to various stimuli, not necessarily related to allergies.
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Examples of usage
- Allergies can cause a variety of symptoms, such as sneezing, itching, and swelling.
- Some common allergens include pollen, dust mites, and pet dander.
informal
A strong dislike or aversion.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| allergy |
This word is commonly used in medical or health-related situations to describe a body's adverse reaction to a substance, such as pollen, food, or medication.
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| aversion |
This word is used to express a strong feeling of dislike or unwillingness, often accompanied by a desire to avoid the disliked object or situation. It can be used in both psychological and everyday contexts.
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| dislike |
This word is used in general contexts to express a mild to moderate degree of not liking something or someone. It can be used in both formal and informal settings.
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Examples of usage
- She has an allergy to early mornings, so don't expect her to be cheerful at breakfast time.
- He has an allergy to horror movies and refuses to watch them.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Science
- Allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to harmless substances, considering them threats.
- Common allergens include pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and certain foods, leading to symptoms like sneezing, itching, or swelling.
- In severe cases, an allergy can cause anaphylaxis, a life-threatening reaction that requires immediate medical attention.
Cultural Perspectives
- Allergies vary significantly around the world; for instance, nut allergies are more prevalent in some regions compared to others.
- In some cultures, traditional remedies have been used to manage allergy symptoms, reflecting local flora and diet.
Health and Psychology
- The prevalence of allergies has been rising, often attributed to changes in lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors.
- Anxiety can be heightened in individuals with severe allergies, as the threat of exposure can create a constant state of alert.
Literature and Pop Culture
- Allergies are often depicted in movies and TV shows, bringing humor or drama to scenarios when characters have unexpected reactions.
- Books focused on health often discuss allergies, sharing personal stories of struggle with food or environmental allergies, raising awareness.
Origin of 'allergy'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the Greek word 'allos,' meaning 'other,' and 'ergon,' meaning 'work,' indicating a different, unusual response from the body to a substance.
- The term began to be used in the early 20th century, but the condition has been recognized in various forms for centuries.
The term 'allergy' was first coined by the Viennese pediatrician Clemens von Pirquet in 1906. He used it to describe an altered reaction of the body's immune system to substances that are normally harmless. Over time, research has expanded our understanding of allergies, leading to advancements in diagnosis and treatment.