Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

infect

verb
/ɪnˈfɛkt/
Definition
To make someone or something become affected by a disease or by harmful bacteria, viruses, etc.
Examples
  • Don’t let the cold virus infect you; wash your hands regularly.
  • The doctor explained how the bacteria can infect the wound if left untreated.
  • Improper food handling can infect a large number of people.
Meaning
Infect refers to the process of transmitting an illness or harmful agent to a living organism or environment.
Synonyms
  • contaminate
  • transmit
  • affect
  • taint