Definition

A substance that has been modified to remove its harmful effects but can still trigger the immune system to produce antibodies.

Example

The vaccine contains a toxoid that helps the body build immunity against the disease.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new vaccine that uses a toxoid?

Yeah, I read that it's safer than traditional vaccines.

Exactly! It helps the body create antibodies without the risk of toxicity.

That's really interesting — I think it's a great advancement in medicine!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Toxoid is formed from "tox" (from Greek "toxikon", meaning poison) and "-oid" (meaning resembling or like). The word "toxoid" refers to a substance that resembles a toxin but is not toxic itself, often used in vaccines.

Memory Tip

Think of 'tox' as relating to poison and '-oid' meaning resembling — a toxoid is something that resembles a poison but is not harmful.

Visually Confused Words