Immunity

/ɪˈmjuːnəti/ noun

Definition

Immunity is the body’s ability to resist a particular disease by destroying or blocking harmful organisms or substances. It can also mean legal protection from punishment or certain responsibilities.

Etymology

From Latin "immunitas" meaning "exemption from public service or tax," from "immunis" (exempt). Doctors borrowed the word to describe being "exempt" from getting sick from a disease.

Kelly Says

Immunity is never absolute; it’s a moving balance between your defenses and the threats around you. Legal immunity borrows the same idea: someone is "exempt" from the usual penalties, even if they technically did the act.

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