[al.ler.gy] n, pl -gies [G Allergie, fr. all- + Gk ergon work--more at work] (1910) 1: altered bodily reactivity (as hypersensitivity) to an antigen in response to a first exposure "a bee venom ~ so severe that a second sting may be fatal"
2: exaggerated or pathological reaction (as by sneezing, respiratory embarrassment, itching, or skin rashes) to substances, situations, or physical states that are without comparable effect on the average individual
3: medical practice concerned with allergies
4: a feeling of antipathy or repugnance