allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈa-lər-jən How to pronounce allergen (audio)
: a substance (such as pollen) that induces allergy
allergenic adjective
allergenicity noun

Examples of allergen in a Sentence

common allergens, such as pollen
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The bagless self-empty base can hold up to 60 days of dirt and debris, and HEPA filtration traps 99.97% of allergens. Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 20 May 2025 Not everyone is allergic to the same thing and some people are allergic to multiple allergens, including certain types of pollen, pet dander, insect bites, mold, dust and certain foods. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 15 May 2025 In the past, pollen, dust, and other allergens were considered the main threat to people with allergic rhinitis. Rachael Zimlich, Verywell Health, 14 May 2025 No illnesses have been reported as a result of the undeclared allergens in the company's baked goods. Chloe Mayer, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for allergen

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Allergen,, blend of allerg- (in Allergie allergy) and -gen (in Antigen antigen)

Note: See note at allergy.

First Known Use

circa 1907, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of allergen was circa 1907

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Allergen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allergen. Accessed 23 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

allergen

noun
al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən How to pronounce allergen (audio)
: a substance (as pollen) that causes allergy
allergenic adjective

Medical Definition

allergen

noun
al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən How to pronounce allergen (audio)
: a substance that induces allergy
inhaled allergens
a suspected food allergen

More from Merriam-Webster on allergen

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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