Synonyms for

Infection

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

Definition

Infection is a disease caused by harmful microorganisms invading the body and causing damage.

Synonyms & similar words

transmission contagion disease illness sickness contamination pollution corruption poisoning toxicity infestation plague epidemic outbreak virus bacteria germs microbes pathogens invasion attack onslaught

Synonyms by register

Formal

infestation contamination pathogen disease

Informal

bug germs illness sickness

Literary

blight plague corruption

Antonyms

immunity resistance sterility health wellness purity

Common collocations

  • bacterial infection
  • viral infection
  • skin infection
  • serious infection
  • prevent infection
  • treat infection
  • spread of infection

Word family

noun infection
verb infect
adjective infectious
adverb infectiously

Usage note

While 'infection' refers to the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms, 'infestation' typically refers to the presence of larger organisms like insects or parasites.

Example sentences

  1. I have to stay home from school because I have an infection.
  2. If you don't wash your hands, you could get an infection.
  3. The doctor prescribed antibiotics to treat the infection.
  4. An infection can spread quickly if you're not careful.
  5. The hospital has strict protocols to prevent infection.

Quotes

  • Prevention is better than cure. Cleanliness can prevent a lot of infection.
  • An infection in the urine is very painful.
  • Infection is a problem where you get a little bit of bacteria in the wound, and it festers.

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