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

Wheat is one of nine major allergens that must be marked on all food items distributed in the United States. —Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Dec. 2024

In the holiday spirit of kindness, attach a small card listing the ingredients so the recipient or others can be aware of any potential allergens. —Bethany Thayer, Detroit Free Press, 7 Dec. 2024

The instigator is the high number of allergens in the air. —Nicole Villalpando, Austin American-Statesman, 5 Dec. 2024

Beyond diet, triggers can extend to things like airborne allergens (pet dander, fragrances, pollen), certain fabrics, or even day-to-day stress, temperature changes, exercise, or sleep deprivation—all of which can be tough to identify and avoid. —Erica Sloan, SELF, 3 Dec. 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