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Infected - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Infected means contaminated by harmful microorganisms like bacteria or viruses, causing disease or illness. It can describe people, animals, or objects carrying pathogens that spread sickness.

infected

/ɪnˈfɛktɪd/ /ɪnˈfɛktɪd/

Definition:

Affected by harmful microorganisms or viruses, causing disease or contamination.

Synonyms:

contaminated, diseased, tainted, infested

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb (past tense)

Antonyms:

sterile, clean, pure

Common Collocations:

infected wound, infected person, infected area, infected blood

Derivatives:

infection, infective, infectivity

Usage Tips:

Use "infected" to describe something contaminated by pathogens or harmful influences; often refers to diseases or corrupted systems.

Common Phrases:

infected with fear, infected by a virus, spread like an infection

Etymology:

From Latin *inficere* ("to stain, corrupt"), via Old French *infecter*.

Examples:

  • 1. The wound became infected after exposure to bacteria.
  • 2. She was infected with the flu virus last week.
  • 3. The computer was infected by a malicious software program.
  • 4. His laughter infected everyone in the room with joy.

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