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

• antipathetic
• 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

Key Takeaways Asian needle ants are on the rise and can be dangerous, as their sting can trigger serious allergic reactions. —Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 May 2025

And while ear piercing is generally safe, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) lists several adverse outcomes to improper piercing and piercing care, such as infection at the piercing site, bloodstream infections, allergic reactions, cuts and tears, and keloid formation. —Taylor Grothe, Parents, 9 May 2025

There had been one consumer complaint of an allergic reaction reported due to this problem, according to the Trophy Nut Company. —Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 May 2025

Its sting can trigger a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening. —Moná Thomas, People.com, 6 May 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