infest

Definition of infestnext
as in to plague
to spread or swarm over in a troublesome manner in desperation, we called in an exterminator because the house was infested with ants

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

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 infest Like other detainees, Ramsingh said that between cleanings the rooms, restrooms and showers were often filthy and infested with insects. ABC News, 6 Mar. 2026 Ronald was overhauling the Uncut Gems screenplay with Josh at work, then coming home to stare dead-eyed at episodes of Shark Tank at the family’s apartment — which may not have had a Legs-style hole in the ceiling, but which was mouse-infested. Alison Willmore, Vulture, 4 Mar. 2026 Soiled, Moldy, or Infested Items Clothing or furniture that smells of mildew, has visible stains, or has been stored in a rodent- or insect-infested environment should be discarded, never donated. Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Feb. 2026 Houseplants that are already wilting, suffering from root rot, or infested with pests shouldn't be watered with rice water, notes Harryson. Lauren David, Martha Stewart, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for infest
Recent Examples of Synonyms for infest
Verb
  • Meanwhile, some good news is in the forecast for the drought- and heat-plagued West, as a cool, wet and even snowy pattern is forecast to bring some relief that's desperately needed across the region.
    Doyle Rice, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2026
  • While the company ultimately plans to build a 104-station tunnel network beneath Las Vegas, the project has also been plagued by safety issues, accidents, and scandals.
    Marco Quiroz-Gutierrez, Fortune, 28 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks after becoming infected and may include fever, headache, rash, and body aches.
    Julie Sharp, CBS News, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Young ticks frequently feed on these mice and become infected.
    Emily Bache, The Conversation, 31 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • The case is separate from a lawsuit in San Francisco federal court, where a jury found Musk liable on March 20 for trying to drive the takeover price down by questioning whether Twitter was overrun by fake and spam accounts, or bots.
    Reuters, Oklahoman, 1 Apr. 2026
  • Last season’s 4-8 team wore down during the second half during losses at LSU, Miami and Texas A&M, was overrun at home by Tennessee and couldn’t hold off USF during a defeat that effectively sealed former head coach Billy Napier’s fate.
    Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 31 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Until Isaacman’s program makeover, Artemis III was crawling toward a moon landing no sooner than 2029.
    Marcia Dunn, Chicago Tribune, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Woods’ car then rolled onto its driver’s side and he was forced to crawl out the window.
    Jessica Schladebeck, New York Daily News, 2 Apr. 2026
Verb
  • Home buyers have gained even more leverage over sellers as housing market supply continues to overwhelm tepid demand.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 28 Mar. 2026
  • Ultimately, the Gophers — making their first NCAA tournament since 2018, and first Sweet 16 since 2005 — were overwhelmed by their Big Ten rival’s size and experience.
    John Shipley, Twin Cities, 28 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Infest.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/infest. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

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