-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
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 ![](/dist-cross-dungarees/2025-02-06--20-43-45-x16ho/images/svg/redesign/arrow-right-exemplar.svg)
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.
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 8 Feb. 2025.
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
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share