passive transfer

noun

: a local transfer of skin sensitivity from an allergic to a normal person by injection of serum from the former that is used especially for identifying specific allergens when a high degree of allergic sensitivity is suspected

Word History

First Known Use

1935, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of passive transfer was in 1935

Dictionary Entries Near passive transfer

Cite this Entry

“Passive transfer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/passive%20transfer. Accessed 22 Mar. 2023.

Medical Definition

passive transfer

noun
: a local transfer of skin sensitivity from an allergic to a normal individual by injection of the allergic individual's serum that is used especially for identifying specific allergens when a high degree of sensitivity is suspected

called also Prausnitz-Küstner reaction

More from Merriam-Webster on passive transfer

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!


Challenging Standardized Test Words, Vol. 2

  • a pencil broken in half on top of a test answer sheet
  • The business’s new computer system proved not to be a panacea.
How Strong Is Your Vocabulary?

Test your vocabulary with our 10-question quiz!

TAKE THE QUIZ
Solve today's spelling word game by finding as many words as you can with using just 7 letters. Longer words score more points.

Can you make 12 words with 7 letters?

PLAY