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.
But the warning refers primarily to allergic reactions in adults; only one case of an allergic reaction has ever been recorded in a newborn. — Ruby Cramer, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 Merida is working on a new class of therapeutics for serious autoimmune and allergic diseases. — Jeff Marks, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 Other possible complications include liver disease, allergic reactions, low blood pressure, and, when abruptly discontinued, withdrawal symptoms. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Aug. 2026 Although no adverse events have been reported, the FDA warns of dangers like pulmonary embolism and allergic reactions. — Victoria Forster, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 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 3 Sep. 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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