Infected: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing a living organism (like a person, animal, or plant) that has been invaded by harmful microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

• The wound became infected and required antibiotic treatment
• The doctor said the patient is infected with the flu virus

Appropriate for situations where non-living items like food, water, or surfaces are made impure or harmful by contact with pollutants or harmful substances.

• The water supply was contaminated with industrial chemicals
• Ensure your hands are clean to avoid contaminating food during preparation

Best used when describing spaces or objects overrun or occupied in large numbers by insects or animals that cause harm or nuisance. Often has a negative connotation.

• The house was infested with cockroaches
• The crops were infested with locusts, leading to severe damage

This word typically refers to environmental contexts where air, water, or land is made dirty or unsafe due to harmful chemicals or substances.

• The river was heavily polluted with industrial waste
• Air quality in the city has worsened due to polluted emissions from factories

Used to describe something contaminated by a virus, bacteria, or malicious software.

• The wound became infected after he fell off his bike.
• Her computer was infected with a malware.

Used to describe a situation where something has been exposed to risk or damage, often due to a security breach.

• His email account was compromised by hackers.
• The bridge was compromised in the earthquake and is no longer safe to cross.

Used to describe something that is complex and not easy to understand or solve.

• The math problem was so complicated that only a few students could solve it.
• Their relationship became complicated after he moved to another city.

Used to describe something that has been altered in a negative way, often associated with data, officials or systems, indicating dishonesty or data degradation. This term usually has a negative connotation.

• The corrupted file could not be opened because it was damaged.
• The politician was removed from office due to his corrupted practices.

This term is used when a living organism, such as a human or an animal, has been invaded by pathogens like bacteria, viruses, or parasites that cause disease.

• He was infected with the flu virus last week.
• The doctor confirmed that the wound had become infected.

Use this when referring to the presence of harmful substances, pathogens, or impurities in an environment, object, or substance, making it unsafe or unsuitable. Can be used in a broader sense, not limited to biological contexts.

• The water was contaminated with chemicals from the factory.
• Please do not touch the food with dirty hands, as you might contaminate it.

This word describes the action or process of something (like a disease, information, or substance) moving over a large area or affecting a large number of people.

• News of the scandal spread quickly through the town.
• The virus spread rapidly, affecting millions of people worldwide.

Use this term when talking about the act of passing something from one person, place, or thing to another, especially in terms of diseases, signals, or information.

• Mosquitoes can transmit malaria to humans.
• The radio tower transmits signals over long distances.