anaphylactic shock

noun

: an often severe and sometimes fatal systemic reaction in a susceptible individual upon exposure to a specific antigen (such as wasp venom or penicillin) after previous sensitization that is characterized especially by respiratory symptoms, fainting, itching, and hives

Examples of anaphylactic shock in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Shock: Types include anaphylactic shock (life-threatening allergic reaction), septic shock (life-threatening reaction to a severe infection), or hemorrhagic shock (sudden and significant loss of blood). —Colleen Doherty, Verywell Health, 2 Aug. 2025

Frost admitted in a social media post that she's survived countless anaphylactic shocks, some of which required hospitalization. —Tracy Wright, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025

Unlike bees, yellow jackets and other wasps can sting multiple times, which can lead to allergic reactions and in rare cases, anaphylactic shock. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 11 July 2025

Going into anaphylactic shock can be life-threatening. —Becca Longmire, People.com, 14 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for anaphylactic shock

• aftershock
• antiknock
• arawak
• hollyhock
• interlock
• isopach
• manioc
• shuttlecock
• tomahawk
• weathercock
• alcock
• beanstalk

Medical Definition

anaphylactic shock

noun

: an often severe and sometimes fatal systemic reaction in a susceptible individual upon a second exposure to a specific antigen (as wasp venom or penicillin) after previous sensitization that is characterized especially by respiratory symptoms, fainting, itching, and hives