as in virus
an abnormal state caused by contact with harmful organisms (such as bacteria or viruses)
There is a viral infection spreading among the schoolchildren.
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Recent Examples of infection
The authors state that infections can lead to costs including for hospital visits, childcare and lost wages.
—
Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2025
The victims described traumatic experiences that left some with feelings of shame as well as physical side effects, ranging from pain and bleeding to serious infections.
—Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Sep. 2025
Most polio infections don’t cause symptoms, and fewer than 1 in 100 infections result in paralysis.
—Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025
In 2007, a case of Naegleria fowleri infection occurred after exposure in Lake Havasu.
—Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for infection
Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 9 Sep. 2025
The victims described traumatic experiences that left some with feelings of shame as well as physical side effects, ranging from pain and bleeding to serious infections.
—Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 9 Sep. 2025
Most polio infections don’t cause symptoms, and fewer than 1 in 100 infections result in paralysis.
—Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 9 Sep. 2025
In 2007, a case of Naegleria fowleri infection occurred after exposure in Lake Havasu.
—Tiffany Acosta, AZCentral.com, 29 Aug. 2025
See All Example Sentences for infection
Recent Examples of Synonyms for infection
Noun
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The Browns are a virus for seasonal depression.—
Jason Lloyd,
New York Times,
8 Sep. 2025
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The virus, which is spread by bodily fluids, is endemic in animal populations in Central and West Africa, and there are periodic outbreaks.—
Ben Smith,
semafor.com,
8 Sep. 2025
Noun
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Louisville is the home of modern water filtration As science advanced, water officials became more aware of the germs and bacteria that live in the water.—
Maggie Menderski,
Louisville Courier Journal,
4 Sep. 2025
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The Center for Disease Control and Prevention said those with health problems or taking medicines that affect their ability to fight germs should check with their healthcare provider before swimming in the ocean or other natural bodies of water.—
Christopher Cann,
USA Today,
3 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Infection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/infection. Accessed 10 Sep. 2025.
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