allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈa-lər-jən 

: a substance (such as pollen) that induces allergy

allergenic

ˌa-lər-ˈje-nik 

adjective

allergenicity

ˌa-lər-jə-ˈni-sə-tē 

noun

Examples of allergen in a Sentence

common allergens, such as pollen

Recent Examples on the Web

Several food products were recalled in September over concerns ranging from possible salmonella and listeria contamination to undeclared allergens, foreign materials and other potential hazards. — Sacbee.com, 2 Oct. 2026

Some hotels venture away from these traditional pillows and offer down-alternative pillows made of recycled materials that are free of allergens. — Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 2 Oct. 2026

Mokas has several allergen-friendly options for those with dietary restrictions. — Kansas City Star, 30 Sep. 2026

Wheat has been recognized by the FDA as one of nine major food allergens since Congress passed the Food Allergen Labeling and Consumer Protection Act of 2004 (FALCPA). — Latoya Gayle, PEOPLE, 26 Sep. 2026

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

Kids Definition

allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən 

: a substance (as pollen) that causes allergy

allergenic

ˌal-ər-ˈjen-ik 

adjective

Medical Definition

allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən 

: a substance that induces allergy

inhaled allergens

a suspected food allergen