Definition of "inoculation"

inoculation

/ɪˌnɒkjʊˈleɪʃən/

noun
countable and uncountable, plural inoculations
1. (immunology) The introduction of an antigenic substance or vaccine into the body to produce immunity to a specific disease.
  Quotations
  We owe, also, to Lady Mary the introduction of inoculation—the moral courage she displayed; the blessing conferred by her exertions may well silence the harsh judgment which suits so little with our narrow and finite intelligence.
  1837, L[etitia] E[lizabeth] L[andon], “The End”, in Ethel Churchill: Or, The Two Brides. […], volume III, London: Henry Colburn, […], page 326
2. (microbiology) The introduction of a microorganism into a culture medium.
3. The insertion of the buds of one plant into another; grafting.
4. An inoculum; that which is inoculated.
5. Synonym of prebunking