immune system

noun

: the bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues by producing the immune response and that includes especially the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, special deposits of lymphoid tissue (as in the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow), macrophages, lymphocytes including the B cells and T cells, and antibodies

Examples of immune system 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.
This is because everyone’s immune system is slightly different, and some people tend to have stronger reactions than others to foreign substances. Christopher P. Holstege, CNN Money, 17 Aug. 2025 Minor gastrointestinal discomfort is probably the most common symptom; however, pathogens that may cause only minor sickness in some people may cause serious conditions or death in others, especially in the very young, old, or those with weakened immune systems. Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 15 Aug. 2025 In the digestive system, beneficial bacteria help absorb nutrients, support digestion and the immune system, and prevent harmful bacteria from growing.2 Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and medications used to treat GERD can upset the balance of beneficial bacteria. Merve Ceylan, Health, 14 Aug. 2025 It is considered a serious condition and can be dangerous or life-threatening, especially to older adults, people with weak immune systems and pregnant people. Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for immune system

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of immune system was circa 1919

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Cite this Entry

“Immune system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/immune%20system. Accessed 21 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

immune system

noun
: the bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues by producing the immune response and that includes especially the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, lymphocytes, and antibodies

Medical Definition

immune system

noun
: the bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues by producing the immune response and that includes especially the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, special deposits of lymphoid tissue (as in the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow), lymphocytes including the B cells and T cells, and antibodies

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