vaccination

noun

vac·​ci·​na·​tion ˌvak-sə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of vaccinating

2

: the scar left by vaccinating

Examples of vaccination in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Flu vaccination rates among the general population are at their lowest level in three years, according to CDC data. —Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY, 20 Feb. 2025

The state health department is also doing free vaccination clinics in Hobbs and Lovington this week. —arkansasonline.com, 19 Feb. 2025

The vaccination rate there is just under 82%, compared to the state's 90% rate. —Brittney Melton, NPR, 19 Feb. 2025

In communities with high vaccination rates — above 95% — diseases like measles have a harder time spreading through communities. —Morgan Lee, Chicago Tribune, 18 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

earlier, "inoculation with fluid from cowpox pustules," from vaccine "of cowpox" (in the phrases vaccine matter, vaccine virus) + -ation — more at vaccine

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing vaccination

• anti-vaccination

Kids Definition

vaccination

noun

vac·​ci·​na·​tion ˌvak-sə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the act of vaccinating

2

: the scar left by vaccinating

Medical Definition

vaccination

noun

vac·​ci·​na·​tion ˌvak-sə-ˈnā-shən 

1

: the introduction into humans or domestic animals of microorganisms that have previously been treated to make them harmless for the purpose of inducing the development of immunity

oral vaccination

vaccination against smallpox

vaccination for whooping cough

2

: the scar left by vaccinating