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 of allergic

• 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

She was also diagnosed with mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), which causes allergic-type reactions to foods and environmental triggers. —Tereza Shkurtaj, PEOPLE, 30 May 2026

This can occur with or without skin markings, which may be mistaken for seemingly benign culprits like bug bites or an allergic reaction. —Alyssa Sparacino, Glamour, 29 May 2026

Alpha-gal syndrome causes a variety of allergic reactions to red meats, from anaphylaxis to mild gastrointestinal distress. —Eva Flowe may 29, Charlotte Observer, 29 May 2026

Flea bites don’t just cause skin irritation and potential allergic reactions in pets. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 28 May 2026

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

• 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