Infect Meaning in English
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
If you don't wash your hands, you might infect others.
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
If one computer gets a virus, it can quickly infect the others on the network.
natural
Bad attitudes can infect a whole team if you're not careful.
natural