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.
According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the most effective way to improve indoor air quality is by reducing or removing the sources of allergens and ventilating your home with clean outdoor air. Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 8 Oct. 2025 Vacuum Furniture Sofas and other upholstered furniture can accumulate dust, dead skin cells, and other allergens. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 8 Oct. 2025 This model protects against allergens like pollen and pet dander, smoke, dust, and does it all from a place of covert, inoffensive design. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 8 Oct. 2025 Upright Vacuum Deals Amazon Prime Big Deal Days is also serving up discounts on upright vacuum cleaners, like the best-selling Shark Lift-Away vacuum, which packs serious suction power and traps allergens with ease. Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 7 Oct. 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 15 Oct. 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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