allergy

al·ler·gy

noun \ˈal-ər-jē\

plural al·ler·gies

Definition of ALLERGY

1

: altered bodily reactivity (as hypersensitivity) to an antigen in response to a first exposure <his bee-venom allergy may render a second sting fatal>

2

: exaggerated or pathological reaction (as by sneezing, respiratory embarrassment, itching, or skin rashes) to substances, situations, or physical states that are without comparable effect on the average individual

3

: medical practice concerned with allergies