Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Infections Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

💉
Add to dictionary

infections

[ɪnˈfɛkʃənz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

Infections are caused by the invasion and multiplication of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, and parasites that are not normally present within the body. They can lead to a variety of symptoms ranging from mild to severe, and can be transmitted through various means such as direct contact, airborne particles, or contaminated surfaces.

Synonyms

contagion, disease, illness.

Examples of usage

  • He developed a bacterial infection after cutting his finger.
  • The flu is a common viral infection that spreads easily during the winter months.
Context #2 | Noun

general

Infections can also refer to the unwanted presence of harmful software or malware on a computer or digital device, leading to disruption of normal operations and potential loss of data.

Synonyms

cyber threat, malware, virus.

Examples of usage

  • She ran a virus scan on her computer to remove any infections.
  • The cybersecurity team worked to prevent any potential infections from compromising the network.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • Throughout history, many pandemics, like the Black Death, were caused by infections spread through human contact.
  • Prior to the invention of antibiotics in the 20th century, many infections were often fatal.

Science

  • The human body is home to trillions of microorganisms, many of which are beneficial, but some can cause infections.
  • Infections can be categorized by the invading organism, such as bacterial, viral, fungal, or parasitic.

Pop Culture

  • Movies often depict infections as the start of a zombie apocalypse, highlighting the fear of uncontrollable diseases spreading.
  • Songs and literature sometimes use 'infection' metaphorically to describe emotional or societal issues.

Psychology

  • The fear of infections is known as 'mysophobia' or germophobia, impacting many people's everyday behaviors.
  • A higher awareness of hygiene practices has emerged due to the COVID-19 pandemic, influencing cultural attitudes toward cleanliness.

Origin of 'infections'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'infection' comes from the Latin 'infectio,' meaning 'to color' or 'to taint,' reflecting how germs can change our health.
  • It has been used since the late 14th century to describe diseases caused by germs.

The word 'infections' originated from the Latin word 'infectio', which means 'to contaminate' or 'to taint'. The concept of infections has been known throughout human history, with early civilizations recognizing the spread of diseases through contact. Over time, advancements in microbiology and medicine have led to a better understanding of the causes and treatments of infections.

See also: disinfect, disinfectant, disinfection, disinfector, infect, infected, infection, infectious.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,990, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.