Infect

/ɪnˈfɛkt/

Meaning & Definition

verb
To contaminate or taint (a person, organism, or environment) with a disease-causing substance, typically a pathogen.
The doctor was concerned that the wound could infect the surrounding tissue.
To influence someone in a negative way, such as by instilling a harmful idea or emotion.
His pessimistic attitude began to infect the entire team.
To introduce a virus or malicious software into a computer system.
The hacker tried to infect the network with a new type of malware.

Etymology

From Latin 'infectus', past participle of 'inficere', meaning 'to stain, dye, or corrupt'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

infect someone with enthusiasm
To transfer one's excitement or passion to someone else.
infect a system
To introduce harmful software or malware into a computer system.

Related Words

infection
The act or process of infecting or the state of being infected.
infectious
Capable of causing infection.

Slang Meanings

To spread rapidly or negatively affect something.
His bad attitude could infect the whole team.
To influence someone in a negative way.
Don't let that rumor infect your judgment.