al·ler·gen ( l  r-jn)n. A substance, such as pollen, that causes an allergy. [German Allergen : Aller(gie), allergy; see allergy + -gen, -gen (from French -gène; see -gen).] al  ler·genic (-j n k) adj. |
allergen [ˈæləˌdʒɛn]
n
(Life Sciences & Allied Applications / Biology) any substance capable of inducing an allergy
allergenic adj
| allergen (lr-jn) A substance, such as pollen, that causes an allergic reaction. |
allergen - Though allergens are not harmful themselves, when they are combined with certain antibodies, a reaction (i.e. the allergy) liberates substances that damage body cells and tissues.
See also related terms for harmful.
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. |  allergen - any substance that can cause an allergysubstance - a particular kind or species of matter with uniform properties; "shigella is one of the most toxic substances known to man" ragweed pollen - pollen of the ragweed plant is a common allergen |
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