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

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.

That means scanning a 2D barcode can link you to an instruction manual, food allergens, coupons, show you what farm the product came from and whether the package is recyclable. — David Goldman, CNN Money, 18 Aug. 2026 Jones noted that sesame is now recognized as one of the nine major food allergens in the United States, and allergic reactions can range from mild itching or hives to life-threatening anaphylaxis. — Daryl Austin, USA Today, 12 Aug. 2026 Smart electronic shelf labels (ESLs) can also help instantly locate goods by using pick-to-light technology while displaying real-time reviews or even allergen warnings. — Gadi Graus, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2026 An allergen and ingredient list is set out at the Overland Park location, and it is referenced in the back at the Shawnee one. — Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 9 Aug. 2026 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

See more words from the same year

Browse Nearby Words

Allen wrench

allergen

allergic

See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Style

“Allergen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allergen. Accessed 19 Aug. 2026.

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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

allergen

noun

Examples of allergen in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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