Main Entry: in·fec·tion

Pronunciation: \in-ˈfek-shən\

Function: noun

Date: 14th century

1 : the act or result of affecting injuriously
2 : an infective agent or material contaminated with an infective agent
3 a : the state produced by the establishment of an infective agent in or on a suitable host b : a disease resulting from infection
4 : an act or process of infecting; also : the establishment of a pathogen in its host after invasion
5 : the communication of emotions or qualities through example or contact