Contagious: meaning, definitions and examples

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contagious

[ kənˈteɪdʒəs ]

^{Context #1}

spread of disease

Capable of being transmitted from one person or organism to another by direct or indirect contact, typically resulting in the rapid spread of the disease.

Synonyms

communicable, infectious, transmittable

Examples of usage

COVID-19 is highly contagious and can easily spread through respiratory droplets.
The flu virus is known to be contagious, especially in crowded places.
Measles is a contagious disease that can be prevented with vaccination.

^{Context #2}

spread of emotions or behavior

Likely to spread or influence others, especially in terms of emotions or behavior.

Synonyms

infectious, spreading, transmittable

Examples of usage

Her laughter was contagious and soon everyone in the room was smiling.
The enthusiasm of the team was contagious and motivated others to work harder.
His positive attitude was contagious and uplifted the entire group.

Translations

Translations of the word "contagious" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contagioso

🇮🇳 संक्रामक

🇩🇪 ansteckend

🇮🇩 menular

🇺🇦 заразний

🇵🇱 zaraźliwy

🇯🇵 伝染性の

🇫🇷 contagieux

🇪🇸 contagioso

🇹🇷 bulaşıcı

🇰🇷 전염성의

🇸🇦 معدي

🇨🇿 nakažlivý

🇸🇰 nákazlivý

🇨🇳 传染性的

🇸🇮 nalezljiv

🇮🇸 smitandi

🇰🇿 жұқпалы

🇬🇪 დამაინფიცირებელი

🇦🇿 yoluxucu

🇲🇽 contagioso

Word origin

The word 'contagious' originated from the Latin word 'contagiosus', meaning 'communicable'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the ability of diseases to be transmitted from one person to another. Over time, the term has also been extended to describe the spread of emotions or behaviors. Contagiousness is a key factor in understanding the rapid transmission of diseases and the influence of social interactions on individuals.