allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈa-lər-jən 

: a substance (such as pollen) that induces allergy

allergenic

ˌa-lər-ˈje-nik 

adjective

allergenicity

ˌa-lər-jə-ˈni-sə-tē 

noun

Examples of allergen in a Sentence

common allergens, such as pollen

Recent Examples on the Web

Families with pets, kids, or wherein allergens are a big concern may want to opt for a leather sofa for easier cleaning. —Abby Wolner, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Sep. 2024

This vacuum works powerfully to pick up pet hair and other allergens off the floor and out of carpet fibers. —Savannah Smith, Rolling Stone, 26 Sep. 2024

Who should avoid soy lecithin? Soy is considered to be one of the nine major allergens in the United States, per the FDA. —Caroline C. Boyle, USA TODAY, 13 Sep. 2024

If a local reaction occurs under a patch, that allergen is one of your triggers.30 At-Home Treatments Home remedies can provide relief and prevent further irritation. —Lindsay Curtis, Health, 12 Sep. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from German Allergen,, blend of allerg- (in Allergie allergy) and -gen (in Antigen antigen)

Note: See note at allergy.

First Known Use

circa 1907, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən 

: a substance (as pollen) that causes allergy

allergenic

ˌal-ər-ˈjen-ik 

adjective

Medical Definition

allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən 

: a substance that induces allergy

inhaled allergens

a suspected food allergen