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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
See all Example Sentences for passive immunity
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Word History
First Known Use
1895, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near passive immunity
Cite this Entry
“Passive immunity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/passive%20immunity. Accessed 14 Nov. 2024.
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
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