Entry Word: contagious

Function: adjective

Meaning: 1 capable of being passed by physical contact from one person to another <chicken pox, measles, German measles, and other contagious diseases>

Synonyms catching, communicable, transmittable

Related Words infectious, infective

Near Antonyms noninfectious

Antonyms noncommunicable

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

Synonyms catching, infectious, spreading

Related Words palpable, perceptible, tangible; irresistible, overpowering, overwhelming; fetching, inviting, winning