vaccinate
VAK-suh-nayt
/ˈvæksɪneɪt/
To treat with a vaccine to produce immunity against a disease.
Implies a preventative measure rather than a cure for an existing illness.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the Latin 'vacca,' meaning cow. This is because the first successful vaccine, developed by Edward Jenner, used the cowpox virus to protect humans against the much more deadly smallpox.
Word relationships
- immunize: A broader term for making someone immune, though often used interchangeably.
- inoculate: A more technical term often referring to the physical act of introducing the substance.
Word family
- vaccination (noun): The act or instance of vaccinating.
- vaccine (noun): The substance used to stimulate the production of antibodies.
Collocations
- vaccinate against
- fully vaccinate
- annually vaccinate
Example sentences
- "It is essential to vaccinate your pets against rabies to protect both them and the community." Public health discussion.
- "To vaccinate is to provide a shield before the battle even begins." Historical context of medicine.
Memory hook
Think of a 'VACCA' (cow) getting a shot to stay healthy. Cow-derived protection.
When not to use
Do not use when referring to giving medicine for a current infection (that would be 'treat' or 'medicate').
Fun facts
- The term was coined by Louis Pasteur to honor Jenner's work with cows.
Explore more words
inoculate, vaccine, inoculation, Immunization, prophylactic, sanitize
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