Infest Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
infest
[ษชnหfษst ]
Definition
insects
To inhabit or overrun in numbers large enough to be harmful or unpleasant.
Synonyms
invade, overpopulate, overrun, swarm.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| infest |
This is typically used when describing an unwanted and pervasive presence of insects, animals, or other pests in a location, especially if they are causing harm or nuisance.
|
| invade |
Use this when discussing an aggressive or forceful entry into a place, often used in a military or territorial context but can also describe other unwanted intrusions.
|
| overrun |
This is used when describing something being overwhelmed or taken over by a large number of something, often in a sudden or forceful manner.
|
| swarm |
This is most often used to describe a large group of insects or people moving together in a busy or clustered manner, generally in a neutral or slightly negative context.
|
| overpopulate |
This word is used to indicate a situation where the number of inhabitants, whether human or animal, exceeds the carrying capacity of the environment, leading to various problems.
|
Examples of usage
- The house was infested with ants.
- The crops were infested with locusts.
- The area became infested with mosquitoes.
- The abandoned building was infested with rats.
- The jungle was infested with snakes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Ecology
- Infestation can disrupt local ecosystems, as some pest species can outcompete native organisms for resources.
- Certain invasive species that infest an area can cause significant economic damage, particularly in agriculture.
- Biological control methods, like introducing natural predators, are often explored to manage infestations in a sustainable way.
Health
- Some infestations, such as those by lice or bed bugs, can lead to discomfort and require treatment to resolve.
- Infestation by disease-carrying organisms can pose serious health risks, leading to outbreaks of infections.
- Regular cleaning and pest management can help prevent infestations in homes and public places.
Literature
- Infestations often serve as allegories in literature, symbolizing deeper fears such as loss of control or societal decay.
- In horror or thriller genres, infestations are used to evoke feelings of claustrophobia and paranoia.
- Authors have used the concept of infestation to discuss themes of colonization and the coexistence of civilizations.
Pop Culture
- The concept of infestation often appears in horror movies, where characters face overwhelming swarms of creatures.
- Video games, particularly in the survival horror genre, frequently feature infestations as a source of conflict and tension.
- In shows and books, infestations can represent personal crises and the struggle to reclaim oneโs personal space.
Origin of 'infest'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'infesta', which means 'to attack' or 'to trouble'.
- It was first recorded in English around the late 15th century, originally referring to armies invading a territory.
- In modern usage, it shifted largely towards describing pests or harmful organisms invading spaces.
The word 'infest' originated from the Latin word 'infestare', which means 'to assail, disturb, molest'. Over time, it evolved to its current usage in English to describe the presence of harmful or unpleasant creatures in large numbers. The concept of infestation has been a concern throughout history, especially in relation to agriculture and living spaces.
See also: infestation, infested.