passive immunity

noun

: short-acting immunity acquired by transfer of antibodies (as by injection of gamma globulin) compare active immunity

passive immunization noun

Examples of passive immunity in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

These include the following: Encourage passive immunity: Passive immunity occurs when immunoglobulins develop in response to an emergency. —Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 8 Sep. 2024

Antibodies also have several significant clinical applications, including detecting previous infections, supporting passive immunity, treating autoimmune diseases, and aiding in diagnostic approaches. —Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 8 Sep. 2024

There was also one medication: palivizumab, a short-acting monoclonal antibody that provides passive immunity (protection with antibodies created outside a person's own body) to infants for up to one month at a time. —Tara Haelle, Scientific American, 20 Mar. 2023

Additionally, active immunity is long-lasting but takes a few weeks to develop; passive immunity is immediate but temporary. —Leah Groth, Health, 17 Nov. 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for passive immunity

• autoimmunity
• importunity
• opportunity
• community
• disunity
• impunity
• munity
• unity

Kids Definition

passive immunity

noun

: temporary immunity acquired by transfer (as by injection) of antibodies especially from an individual with active immunity

Medical Definition

passive immunity

noun

: short-acting immunity acquired by transfer of antibodies (as by injection of gamma globulin) compare acquired immunity, active immunity, innate immunity

passive immunization noun