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
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.
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 

Word History

First Known Use

1895, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of passive immunity was in 1895

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 24 Dec. 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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