atopy

noun

at·​o·​py ˈa-tə-pē How to pronounce atopy (audio)
: a genetic disposition to develop an allergic reaction (such as allergic rhinitis or asthma) and produce elevated levels of IgE upon exposure to an environmental antigen and especially one inhaled or ingested
atopic adjective

Examples of atopy in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Management of a black leopard (Panthera pardus) with seasonal atopy and cutaneous adverse food reaction by using transmucosal immunotherapy Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine. Jen McCaffery, Discover Magazine, 14 Nov. 2024 This may be an early case of atopy — the genetic tendency to develop allergic diseases like asthma and allergic rhinitis. Discover Magazine, 15 Oct. 2024 One of the common causes of itchy paws in our canine patients can be allergies resulting in atopic dermatitis or atopy. Dr. Devon B. Smith, Baltimore Sun, 1 May 2024

Word History

Etymology

Greek atopia uncommonness, from atopos out of the way, uncommon, from a- + topos place

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of atopy was in 1923

Dictionary Entries Near atopy

Cite this Entry

“Atopy.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/atopy. Accessed 12 Dec. 2024.

Medical Definition

atopy

noun
at·​o·​py ˈat-ə-pē How to pronounce atopy (audio)
plural atopies
: a genetic disposition to develop an allergic reaction (as allergic rhinitis, asthma, or atopic dermatitis) and produce elevated levels of IgE upon exposure to an environmental antigen and especially one inhaled or ingested

More from Merriam-Webster on atopy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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