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

• 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

In rare cases, ginger may cause symptoms ranging from skin irritation to anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction). —Lauren O'Connor, Health, 13 Aug. 2025

The man died of complications from the bite, and the cause of death is believed to be an allergic reaction, the spokesperson said. —Olivia Lloyd, Charlotte Observer, 12 Aug. 2025

Beyond discomfort and potential allergic reactions, a dirty mattress can also affect the quality of your sleep itself. —Daley Quinn, Southern Living, 11 Aug. 2025

Second — allergic reactions don't last 3 seasons on a streaming network. —Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 9 Aug. 2025

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