allergic

adjective

al·​ler·​gic ə-ˈlər-jik 

1

: of, relating to, affected with, or caused by allergy

2

: having an aversion

allergic to work

Synonyms of allergic

• afraid
• reluctant
• opposed
• opposing
• averse

Examples of allergic in a Sentence

a lover of the outdoors who claims to be allergic to desk jobs

Recent Examples on the Web

For travelers drawn to the romance and ease of a voyage at sea but allergic to the thought of a giant cruise ship, there’s now a more rarefied option. —Elycia Rubin, HollywoodReporter, 24 Mar. 2026

During one frightening allergic reaction, her child’s body erupts in hives and her breathing becomes labored, sending the family rushing to emergency care. —Rhoda Feng, Vulture, 23 Mar. 2026

Simple Errors and Serious Problems A severe allergic reaction often starts with something relatively minor. —K. H. Koehler, Ascend Agency, 18 Mar. 2026

The most common offenders, with regard to allergic reactions, are pet dander, dust and pollen. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 17 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

allergy + -ic entry 1, after German allergisch

Note: See note at allergy.

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing allergic

• allergic rhinitis
• anti-allergic

Rhymes for allergic

• lysergic
• glutamatergic

Kids Definition

allergic

adjective

al·​ler·​gic ə-ˈlər-jik 

1

: of, relating to, affected with, or caused by allergy

an allergic reaction

2

: having a dislike for something

allergic to hard work

Medical Definition

allergic

adjective

al·​ler·​gic ə-ˈlər-jik 

1

: of, relating to, or characterized by allergy

an allergic reaction

allergic diseases

2

: affected with allergy : subject to an allergic reaction

he is allergic to pollen

allergically

ə-ˈlər-ji-k(ə-)lē

adverb

The body reacts allergically, the skin reddening and breaking out in tiny blisters.

—Paul G. Donohue, The Springfield (Massachusetts) Union-News