immunity
ih-MYOO-nuh-tee
/ɪˈmjuːnəti/
The state or ability of an organism to resist a particular infection or toxin through specific antibodies.
Describes physiological resistance to viral infection or legal protection from prosecution or penalty.
The story behind the word. Derived from Latin 'immunitas', meaning exemption from public duties or taxes ('munis'). Medicine borrowed this legal term in the late 19th century to describe body cells exempt from disease attack.
Word relationships
- resistance: 'Resistance' is broader and can refer to non-biological defense against force or change.
- exemption: 'Exemption' applies strictly to legal, financial, or rule-based relief.
- susceptibility: 'Susceptibility' describes being vulnerable or easily affected by disease.
- vulnerability: 'Vulnerability' is open state to injury or illness exposure.
Commonly confused with
- immunization: Immunity is the state of protection; immunization is the process/treatment that creates it.
Word family
- immune (adjective): Resistant to a particular infection or exempt.
- immunize (verb): To make resistant to infection.
Collocations
- build immunity
- herd immunity
- diplomatic immunity
- boost immunity
Idioms & expressions
- grant immunity
Example sentences
- "Vaccination helps build long-term immunity against common respiratory infections." Health news
Memory hook
IMMUNITY leaves you IMMUNE to the bugs around you. Shield against disease or duty.
When not to use
Do not use 'immunity' when describing simple temporary physical strength or stamina.
Fun facts
- The ancient Roman concept of 'immunitas' allowed certain cities to be exempt from paying taxes to Rome.
Related words
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