infect
word
Definition
To put germs, viruses, or bacteria into a person, animal, or thing, making them sick. It can also mean spreading something harmful or negative to others.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in medical or scientific contexts. Common collocations: 'infect with a virus', 'infected wound', 'the disease can infect others'. Can also refer metaphorically to attitudes or emotions spreading ("negativity can infect a team"). Often confused with 'affect', but 'infect' always involves germs, disease, or harmful influence.
Example Sentences
The flu can easily infect people who have weak immune systems.
basic
Bacteria can infect a wound and cause pain.
basic
His laughter was so genuine, it seemed to infect the whole room with happiness.
natural
Bad attitudes can infect a whole team if you're not careful.
natural
If you don't wash your hands, you might infect others.
basic
If one computer gets a virus, it can quickly infect the others on the network.
natural