Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈfɛkʃən/

Definitions

• The process of being infected or the state of having a disease caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.
• A disease caused by the invasion of a pathogen, such as a virus, bacterium, or fungus, into the body.
• The transmission or spread of a harmful organism or pathogen into a living system.

Usage Examples

• The infection spread rapidly throughout the community, requiring emergency intervention.
• She was diagnosed with a bacterial infection after experiencing flu-like symptoms.
• Infections can be prevented through proper hygiene and vaccination.

Etymology

The word "infection" comes from the Latin "infectio," meaning "a tainting or pollution," derived from "infectus," meaning "to taint or corrupt." The term evolved in the 14th century to denote the process of contaminating or the condition of being contaminated.

Synonyms

• Contamination
• Disease
• Illness
• Invasion
• Contagion

Antonyms

• Health
• Immunity
• Wellness
• Protection

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

While the pronunciation of "infection" remains largely uniform across English-speaking countries, subtle variations in stress can be found. In some regions, the second syllable may be stressed more than in others.

Historical Usage

The term "infection" has been in use since the early 14th century and has evolved with the growth of medical knowledge. It has been central in the study of diseases, especially with the development of microbiology in the 19th century.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of infection varies widely across cultures. In some societies, infections are attributed to supernatural forces or divine punishment, while others focus on hygiene, medical intervention, and scientific prevention methods.

More Information

Infection is a cornerstone concept in the study of medicine, microbiology, and epidemiology. Understanding infections is vital to developing treatments, vaccines, and prevention strategies. Advances in research continue to expand our knowledge of pathogens and their impact on public health, and infection control remains a priority in healthcare systems worldwide.