immunize
Protect against disease or negative influence
Examples
In a meeting
“Our wellness program aims to immunize employees against burnout through preventive measures.”
Over coffee
“Getting enough sleep helps immunize you against getting sick.”
Why this word
protect
immunize specifically means making resistant to disease through biological means, while protect is general shielding from harm
vaccinate
immunize is the broader result of making immune by any means, while vaccinate specifically refers to administering a vaccine
shield
immunize means creating internal resistance to disease, while shield suggests external barrier protection
Usage tip
Use both literally for vaccination and metaphorically for building resistance to problems. Emphasizes proactive protection.
Etymology
Latin 'immunis' meaning 'exempt from service', from 'in-' (not) + 'munis' (obligation)
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Related words
preempt
Take action to prevent something before it happens
deter
To discourage someone from taking an action
thwart
To prevent someone from accomplishing something; to block or defeat
prophylactic
Intended to prevent disease or other unwanted consequences
inoculate
To protect against disease or negative influence through preventive treatment
affliction
A condition causing pain or suffering