immunity

UK: ɪˈmjuːnəti | US: ɪˈmjuːnəti

Definition

  1. n. the ability of an organism to resist a particular infection or toxin

  2. n. legal protection from prosecution or liability

  3. n. exemption from an obligation or penalty

Structure
immun <free, exempt (from Latin *immunis*)>ity <noun suffix indicating state or condition>
Etymology

The word "immunity" traces back to Latin immunis, meaning "exempt from public service" (in- "not" + munis "service or duty"). Over time, it evolved to signify biological resistance (e.g., to disease) and later broadened to legal contexts (e.g., diplomatic immunity). The suffix -ity nominalizes the concept, turning "immune" into a state of being.

Examples

  1. Vaccines help build immunity against viruses.

  2. The ambassador enjoyed diplomatic immunity in the host country.

  3. Stress can weaken your immune system, reducing immunity.

  4. The treaty granted the organization tax immunity.

  5. Her natural immunity to the disease surprised doctors.