hypoallergenic
|hy-po-al-ler-gen-ic|
🇺🇸
/ˌhaɪ.poʊˌæ.lɚˈdʒɛn.ɪk/
🇬🇧
/ˌhaɪ.pəʊˌæl.əˈdʒɛn.ɪk/
less likely to cause allergies
Etymology
'hypoallergenic' originates from Greek, specifically the prefix 'hypo-' meaning 'under' or 'less than,' and 'allergenic' from 'allergy,' which is derived from Greek 'allos' meaning 'other' and 'ergon' meaning 'work.'
'hypoallergenic' was coined in the 20th century to describe products that are less likely to cause allergic reactions.
Initially, it meant 'less likely to cause an allergic reaction,' and this meaning has remained consistent in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Adjective 1
designed to reduce or minimize the possibility of an allergic response, as by containing relatively few or no potentially irritating substances.
This hypoallergenic lotion is perfect for sensitive skin.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Last updated: 2025/04/27 14:39