sen·si·tize (s n s -t z )v. sen·si·tized, sen·si·tiz·ing, sen·si·tiz·es v.tr. 1. To make sensitive: "The polarity principle . . . sensitizes the observer to the coexistence of seemingly contradictory phenomena" (Heinz Eulau). 2. To make (a film or plate) sensitive to light, especially to light of a specific wavelength. 3. To make hypersensitive or reactive to an antigen, such as pollen, especially by a second or repeated exposure. v.intr. To become sensitive or hypersensitive. [sensit(ive) + -ize.] sen si·ti·zation (-t-z sh n) n.sen si·tizer n. |
ThesaurusLegend: Synonyms Related Words Antonyms
| Noun | 1. | sensitization - the state of being sensitive (as to an antigen) irritation - (pathology) abnormal sensitivity to stimulation; "any food produced irritation of the stomach" predisposition, sensitivity - susceptibility to a pathogen |
| 2. | sensitization - (psychology) the process of becoming highly sensitive to specific events or situations (especially emotional events or situations) physical process, process - a sustained phenomenon or one marked by gradual changes through a series of states; "events now in process"; "the process of calcification begins later for boys than for girls" psychological science, psychology - the science of mental life | |
| 3. | sensitization - rendering an organism sensitive to a serum by a series of injections immunisation, immunization - the act of making immune (especially by inoculation) |
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