1.
antigen
A substance that triggers an immune response in the body, causing the production of antibodies. Commonly encountered in the context of medical testing and vaccines.
Usage
Became widely known during the COVID-19 pandemic through 抗原検査 (antigen test). The term is now familiar to most Japanese speakers.
Note: A homophone of 高原 (plateau, highland).
Common collocations
- 抗原検査 (antigen test)
- 抗原検査キット (antigen test kit)
- 抗原陽性 (antigen positive)