allergic

adjective

al·​ler·​gic ə-ˈlər-jik How to pronounce allergic (audio)
Synonyms of allergicnext
1
: of, relating to, affected with, or caused by allergy
2
: having an aversion
allergic to work

Synonyms of allergic

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Examples of allergic in a Sentence

a lover of the outdoors who claims to be allergic to desk jobs
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.
Possible risks include contamination, allergic reactions and tumor growth, according to the FDA. — ABC News, 15 Oct. 2026 Furthermore, the scientists highlighted a potential for liver damage, allergic reactions, or other serious consequences. — Amy Maxmen, Miami Herald, 15 Oct. 2026 In some individuals, exposure to alpha-gal can lead to a lifelong allergic response. — Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 14 Oct. 2026 Bites appear similar to those from mosquitoes and can appear swollen and itchy, with symptoms getting worse if the person is allergic to bedbugs. — Lianne Kolirin, CNN Money, 13 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for allergic

Word History

Etymology

allergy + -ic entry 1, after German allergisch

Note: See note at allergy.

First Known Use

1908, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of allergic was in 1908

Phrases Containing allergic

Rhymes for allergic

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Browse Nearby Words

allergen
allergic
allergic rhinitis
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Allergic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/allergic. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

allergic

adjective
al·​ler·​gic ə-ˈlər-jik How to pronounce allergic (audio)
1
: of, relating to, affected with, or caused by allergy
an allergic reaction
2
: having a dislike for something
allergic to hard work

Medical Definition

allergic

adjective
al·​ler·​gic ə-ˈlər-jik How to pronounce allergic (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or characterized by allergy
an allergic reaction
allergic diseases
2
: affected with allergy : subject to an allergic reaction
he is allergic to pollen
allergically
ə-ˈlər-ji-k(ə-)lē
adverb
The body reacts allergically, the skin reddening and breaking out in tiny blisters. —Paul G. Donohue, The Springfield (Massachusetts) Union-News
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