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

In an allergy, immunoglobulin E (IgE) specific to allergens (normally harmless substances that trigger an immune response in some people) may be detected in the blood. —Amber J. Tresca, Verywell Health, 31 Jan. 2025

The recall is due to misbranding and undeclared allergens the FSIS notes. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 31 Jan. 2025

Although experts suggest that severe health effects are unlikely, the presence of an undeclared allergen remains a serious regulatory concern. —Quartz Intelligence Newsroom, Quartz, 29 Jan. 2025

If your pink eye is caused by seasonal allergies, steering clear of allergens (when possible) or treating it with certain antihistamine or anti-inflammatory eye drops can be helpful, says Epling. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 23 Jan. 2025

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