allergen

noun

al·​ler·​gen ˈa-lər-jən How to pronounce allergen (audio)
: a substance (such as pollen) that induces allergy
allergenic adjective
allergenicity noun

Examples of allergen in a Sentence

common allergens, such as pollen
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The bagless self-empty base can hold up to 60 days of dirt and debris, and HEPA filtration traps 99.97% of allergens. & John Mihaly, PC Magazine, 27 May 2025 Clear allergen disclosure protects consumers, helps families manage health risks, and enforces industry accountability under FDA regulations. Jasmine Laws, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 May 2025 Step 2: Vacuum or Sweep Floors Use a vacuum with a soft brush attachment or a broom to sweep the sauna’s floor and bench, removing dirt, dust, allergens, and other debris. Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 May 2025 Beaches are another solid destination for people with pollen allergies because the salty, ocean air is generally free of allergens, Murillo said. Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 15 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for allergen

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of allergen was circa 1907

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Allergen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allergen. Accessed 4 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

allergen

noun
al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən How to pronounce allergen (audio)
: a substance (as pollen) that causes allergy
allergenic adjective

Medical Definition

allergen

noun
al·​ler·​gen ˈal-ər-jən How to pronounce allergen (audio)
: a substance that induces allergy
inhaled allergens
a suspected food allergen

More from Merriam-Webster on allergen

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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