An immunizing agent is a substance that is designed to activate an immune response in the body and provide protection against certain diseases. There are various synonyms for the term "immunizing agent" such as vaccine, immunogen, booster, inoculation, injection, and shot. Vaccines are the most commonly known synonym for an immunizing agent, as they are the most widely used type of immunization. Immunogens are substances that induce an immune response on their own, usually through natural exposure or infection. Booster shots are given to increase the effectiveness of a previous vaccination. Inoculations and injections refer to the physical delivery of the immunizing agent into the body.