immune response

noun

: a bodily response to an antigen that occurs when lymphocytes identify the antigenic molecule as foreign and induce the formation of antibodies and lymphocytes capable of reacting with it and rendering it harmless

called also immune reaction

Examples of immune response in a Sentence

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.
Without tick bites, red meat, or dairy to incite it, the immune response will subside eventually. — Burkhard Bilger, New Yorker, 29 June 2026 Every function in your body, from immune response to tissue repair to neural signaling, is executed by proteins. — Kj Dhaliwal, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026 Its antioxidant properties also help reduce oxidative stress, a process that can otherwise weaken your immune response. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 19 June 2026 These symptoms are the body's immune response to dehydration and overheating, aimed at cooling the body and repairing any damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. — Maggie O'Neill, Verywell Health, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for immune response

Word History

First Known Use

1923, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of immune response was in 1923

Rhymes for immune response

See All Rhymes for immune response

Browse Nearby Words

immuned
immune response
immune surveillance
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Immune response.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/immune%20response. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

immune response

noun
: a bodily response to a foreign substance, cell, or tissue that involves the formation of antibodies and cells capable of reacting with it and rendering it harmless

called also immune reaction

Medical Definition

immune response

noun
: a bodily response to an antigen that occurs when lymphocytes identify the antigenic molecule as foreign and induce the formation of antibodies and lymphocytes capable of reacting with it and rendering it harmless

called also immune reaction

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