Immune
ɪˈmjuːn
Definitions
2 meaningsProtected or resistant to a disease or infection.
ɪˈmjuːn
Protected from a disease or infection
She is immune to the virus because she was vaccinated.
💡 Simply: Being immune is like having a superpower that keeps you safe from getting sick. If you're immune to something, it means you're protected, like a superhero with an invisible force field! For example, if you get the measles once, your body might build up immunity, and you won't get it again.
👶 For kids: When you're immune, it means your body won't get sick from a certain germ.
More Examples
The body's immune system protects against disease.
After having chickenpox, most people become immune.
How It's Used
"After her vaccination, she was immune to the flu."
"Many children are immune to chickenpox after they have had it once."
Not affected or influenced by something; exempt.
ɪˈmjuːn
Not susceptible or responsive to something
He was immune to the charms of the actress.
💡 Simply: Sometimes 'immune' means you're not bothered by something. Imagine you're watching a silly movie, and someone tries to make a serious comment – you're immune to that! Or, in a courtroom, someone might get immunity, which means they can't be prosecuted for what they say.
👶 For kids: When you're immune to something else, it means it doesn't bother you or affect you.
More Examples
The senator was granted immunity from prosecution.
They were immune to the marketing campaigns.
How It's Used
"He was immune to their criticism and continued with his plan."
"The witness was granted immunity from prosecution."
Idioms & expressions
immune system
The complex network of cells and organs that defends the body against infections and diseases.
"A healthy immune system is vital for overall health."
grant immunity
To officially give someone protection from legal prosecution.
"The court granted immunity to the witness in exchange for their testimony."
From Latin immunis, meaning 'exempt from service, tax-free,' originating from in- ('not') + munis ('performing services, duty').
The word 'immune' has been used in English since the 15th century, initially referring to exemption from obligations, later evolving to its medical meaning.
Memory tip
Imagine a shield (immune system) that protects you from harmful invaders (diseases).