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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
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
Active immunity refers to immunity your body develops from making antibodies on its own, while you are given antibodies in passive immunity.
—Leah Groth, Health, 17 Nov. 2023
See all Example Sentences for passive immunity
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'passive immunity.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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 2 Oct. 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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