immune system

noun

: the bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues by producing the immune response and that includes especially the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, special deposits of lymphoid tissue (as in the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow), macrophages, lymphocytes including the B cells and T cells, and antibodies

Examples of immune system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Minor gastrointestinal discomfort is probably the most common symptom; however, pathogens that may cause only minor sickness in some people may cause serious conditions or death in others, especially in the very young, old, or those with weakened immune systems. Jalen Williams, Freep.com, 25 July 2025 When disturbed, the fungus releases spores that can cause severe respiratory infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. Justin Stebbing, JSTOR Daily, 24 July 2025 High risk groups include: Older adults People with weakened immune systems Pregnant women Those with underlying health conditions, such as asthma and heart disease Getting a shot is especially important, Levy said, for those who haven’t had one in over a year and whose immunity has likely waned. Shreya Srinivasan, NBC news, 23 July 2025 People older than age 60 and those with weakened immune systems are more likely to get seriously sick, the California Department of Public Health warns. Molly Gibbs, Mercury News, 22 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for immune system

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of immune system was circa 1919

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Cite this Entry

“Immune system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/immune%20system. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

immune system

noun
: the bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues by producing the immune response and that includes especially the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, lymphocytes, and antibodies

Medical Definition

immune system

noun
: the bodily system that protects the body from foreign substances, cells, and tissues by producing the immune response and that includes especially the thymus, spleen, lymph nodes, special deposits of lymphoid tissue (as in the gastrointestinal tract and bone marrow), lymphocytes including the B cells and T cells, and antibodies

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