Synonyms for

Infect

Verb / ˌɪˈnfekt / Another word for infect — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to contaminate with a disease-producing substance or agent

Synonyms & similar words

taint disinfect contaminate spread transmit infest pollute taint poison corrupt infiltrate invade attack injure affect sicken impair damage ruin injure afflict trouble

Synonyms by register

Formal

contaminate inculcate imbue infuse

Informal

catch get spread transmit

Literary

taint corrupt pollute

Antonyms

cleanse disinfect sterilize purify decontaminate sanitise

Common collocations

  • infect with bacteria
  • infect with virus
  • infect the system
  • infect the mind
  • infect the population
  • infect a computer
  • infect a wound

Word family

noun infection
verb infect
adjective infectious
adverb infectiously

Usage note

While 'infect' primarily refers to the biological process of disease transmission, it can also be used metaphorically to describe the spread of ideas or emotions. Be mindful of the context to avoid ambiguity.

Example sentences

  1. The flu can infect people who are not vaccinated.
  2. Dirty water can infect swimmers with bacteria.
  3. A computer virus can infect your files and programs.
  4. Mosquitoes can infect humans with diseases like malaria and dengue fever.
  5. Washing your hands can help prevent the spread of infection.

Quotes

  • The mind is everything. What you think you become. It is infected with the virus of the world.
  • The world is infected with capitalists. If you don't have the money, you have no say.
  • Love is a disease that can infect anyone.

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