Definition of contagiousnext
1
as in infectious
capable of being passed by physical contact from one person to another chicken pox, measles, German measles, and other contagious diseases

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2
as in spreading
exciting a similar feeling or reaction in others the enthusiasm of the new club members was contagious

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contagious One horse moved from the site has tested positive for equine Strangles, a contagious bacterial disease that Humane Society officials said can emerge when horses experience stress. Teri Figueroa, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 June 2026 That optimism felt surprisingly contagious. Marc Adelman, HollywoodReporter, 16 June 2026 Health workers were trying to remove the body for the community's safety — even in death, victims are highly contagious. Ramy Inocencio, CBS News, 16 June 2026 His laugh was so contagious and warm. Jack Dunn, Variety, 14 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for contagious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contagious
infectious
Adjective
  • Lynn's infectious personality and ongoing quest for selfies made her someone that everyone wanted to know, and her sharp wit kept readers coming back for more.
    Jesse Sarles, CBS News, 20 June 2026
  • The traveler was infectious while passing through Los Angeles County, potentially exposing others at LAX and the Hilton Los Angeles Airport Hotel.
    Brittany Miller, FOXNews.com, 20 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Contagious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contagious. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

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