Infesting: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word 'infest' comes from the Latin 'infestare', which means to attack or invade.
• It first entered the English language in the late 14th century and was used primarily in the context of harmful animals or pests.
• Related words include 'infestation' which refers to the condition of being infested.

Biology

• Infestation often involves parasites or pests like insects, rodents, or microorganisms that live on or in a host.
• Common examples of infestations include termites in wood or bedbugs in mattresses, both causing significant damage or discomfort.
• Some infestations can impact human health, leading to allergies or diseases transmitted by pests.

Cultural References

• Infestation themes are popular in horror movies, where locations are overrun by creepy creatures, heightening fear and suspense.
• In literature, infestations often symbolize the spread of corruption or decay within a society or community.
• The iconic video game 'Resident Evil' features infestations as a central plot point, bringing life to horror themes.

Economics

• Agricultural infestations can significantly impact food supply, leading to market fluctuations and increased prices.
• Countries invest in pest control measures to protect crops and livestock from infestations, demonstrating the economic impact of pests.
• Understanding the dynamics of infestations in urban settings has led to innovations in pest management and urban planning.

Psychology

• The fear of infestations can lead to obsessive behaviors known as 'hoarding' where individuals feel the need to collect or store things to ward off unwanted creatures.
• Infestations are often used as a metaphor in psychology to describe overwhelming issues or experiences in a person's life.
• Studies show that the presence of pests can increase anxiety and stress levels in affected individuals, illustrating the psychological impact of infestations.

At rank #27,489, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.

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