# immunization

/ˌɪmjunəˈzeɪʃən/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/immunization
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. the medical process

noun · CEFR B2 · Technical

the process of making someone immune to a disease, usually by using a vaccine to help the body learn how to fight it.

For teachers: the physiological process of inducing immunity, typically through the administration of an immunogen to stimulate a primary immune response.

- Mass immunization programs have helped to eliminate many dangerous diseases around the world.
- Public health officials emphasized that widespread immunization is the most effective strategy for achieving herd immunity within the local population.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the general medical practice or biological process.

### 2. a specific treatment

noun · CEFR B2 · American English

a specific instance of being given a vaccine; a shot or treatment.

For teachers: a specific instance or dose of an immunizing agent administered to a patient.

- The school requires all new students to show proof of their childhood immunizations.
- The clinic provides a schedule of required immunizations for infants to ensure they are protected against common respiratory infections.

Usage: Commonly used as a countable noun in American English, where 'vaccination' might be preferred in British English.

Teaching tip: In American English, 'immunization' and 'vaccination' are often used interchangeably in clinical settings, though 'immunization' technically refers to the result.

## Examples

- The school requires proof of immunization for all new students.
- Public health officials launched a campaign to increase immunization rates in rural areas to prevent a measles outbreak.
- Widespread immunization has led to the global eradication of smallpox and a significant reduction in the incidence of polio and other debilitating childhood diseases.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.