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Infested - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Infested describes a place or object overrun by harmful or unwanted creatures, such as insects or rodents. It implies a large, troublesome presence causing discomfort or damage.

infested

/ɪnˈfɛstɪd/ /ɪnˈfɛstɪd/

Definition:

Overrun or inhabited by pests, parasites, or harmful organisms in large numbers.

Synonyms:

overrun, plagued, swarming, crawling

Part of Speech:

adjective, verb (past tense)

Antonyms:

clean, sterile

Common Collocations:

infested with rats, infested house, infested area, infested food

Derivatives:

infestation, infesting

Usage Tips:

Use "infested" to describe places or objects overwhelmed by unwanted creatures; often implies a negative connotation.

Common Phrases:

rat-infested, bug-infested, lice-infested

Etymology:

From Latin *infestare* meaning "to attack or disturb," derived from *infestus* meaning "hostile."

Examples:

  • 1. The old barn was infested with rats.
  • 2. Her hair became infested with lice after camping.
  • 3. The abandoned house is infested with cockroaches.
  • 4. The picnic food was infested with ants.

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