Meaning & Definition of word "Infection"
Infection
/ɪnˈfɛkʃən/
noun:
- 1. The invasion of the body by pathogenic microorganisms that reproduce and multiply, often resulting in disease.
- Example: The doctor diagnosed her with a respiratory infection that required immediate treatment.
- 2. A disease caused by the presence of microorganisms in the body.
- Example: The infection spread rapidly through the nursing home, affecting many residents.
- 3. The act of infecting or the condition of being infected.
- Example: Proper hygiene is essential to prevent the spread of infection in hospitals.
- 4. An infectious disease.
- Example: The flu is a common viral infection that can lead to serious complications.
Etymology
●Late Middle English: from Latin infectio(n-), from the verb inficere 'taint, dye, infect'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
viral infection:
An illness caused by a virus.
bacterial infection:
An illness caused by bacteria.
chronic infection:
An infection that persists over time.
hospital-acquired infection:
An infection acquired during hospitalization.
Related Words
inflammatory:
Relating to inflammation or swelling.
pathogen:
An organism that causes disease.
contagious:
Capable of being transmitted from one individual to another.
Slang Meanings of infection
Meaning: Bug
● Example Sentence: I caught a bug that's going around.
Meaning: Germ
● Example Sentence: Watch out for the germs at the school.