Definition

To introduce a vaccine or other substance into a person's or animal's body to help them build immunity against a disease.

Example

The doctor will inoculate the children against measles.

Tense Forms

Conversation

Did you hear about the new vaccine they're going to inoculate people with?

Yeah, I read that it's supposed to be really effective against the flu.

I think it's great that they can inoculate so many people at once.

Absolutely! It'll make a huge difference in keeping everyone healthy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inoculate → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "oculare" (meaning to place in or to introduce). The word describes the act of introducing a substance into the body, particularly for the purpose of immunization.

Memory Tip

Think of 'placing something into' ('in-') the body to protect it from disease — that's what inoculate means.

Visually Confused Words