immunity (B1)

noun

Pronunciation: /ɪˈmjuːnəti/

Definition

The ability of an organism to resist a particular infection or toxin by the action of specific antibodies or sensitized white blood cells.

Examples

• The vaccine provides immunity against the disease.

• Natural immunity can be acquired after recovering from an illness.

• Herd immunity is achieved when a large portion of a population is immune.

How to Use immunity

immunity to (prepositional phrase)

The state of being protected from or unaffected by something. — "Children often have a natural immunity to certain adult diseases."

immunity from (prepositional phrase)

Freedom or exemption from a specific obligation, penalty, or risk. — "The treaty granted the company immunity from local taxes."

Synonyms of immunity

Words with a similar meaning to immunity:

• resistance
• protection
• exemption
• insusceptibility

Antonyms of immunity

Words with the opposite meaning to immunity:

• susceptibility
• vulnerability

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