Pestilent: meaning, definitions and examples

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pestilent

 

[ ˈpɛs.tɪ.lənt ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

disease context

Pestilent refers to something that is harmful or destructive to life, often associated with the spread of disease. It describes pathogens that are virulent and capable of causing widespread illness or death. The term can also be used to describe something that is morally harmful or pernicious. In literature, pestilent often conveys a sense of danger and urgency, illustrating the impact of a plague or a harmful influence. It is primarily used in historical or literary contexts, evoking images of outbreaks and suffering.

Synonyms

dangerous, infectious, noisome, noxious, virulent.

Examples of usage

  • The pestilent air was filled with the smell of decay.
  • During the outbreak, many cities were declared pestilent zones.
  • Pestilent ideas can corrupt young minds.
  • The pestilent disease spread rapidly through the population.

Translations

Translations of the word "pestilent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pestilento

🇮🇳 विषैला

🇩🇪 pestilenzartig

🇮🇩 pestis

🇺🇦 пестицидний

🇵🇱 pestylencja

🇯🇵 疫病の

🇫🇷 pestilentiel

🇪🇸 pestilente

🇹🇷 salgın

🇰🇷 전염병의

🇸🇦 مُعدٍ

🇨🇿 morový

🇸🇰 morový

🇨🇳 瘟疫的

🇸🇮 kužni

🇮🇸 plágus

🇰🇿 жұқпалы

🇬🇪 პესტილენტური

🇦🇿 epidemik

🇲🇽 pestilente

Etymology

The word 'pestilent' originates from the Latin term 'pestilentem', which is the accusative singular of 'pestilens', stemming from 'pestis', meaning 'plague' or 'disease'. The concept of pestilence has been prevalent throughout history, particularly during times of pandemics and epidemics. Its earliest usage can be traced back to the Middle Ages when it was commonly employed to describe the Black Death and other significant outbreaks that decimated populations across Europe and Asia. Over centuries, 'pestilent' evolved to encompass not only diseases but also metaphoric uses to describe harmful influences in society, literature, and environments. As such, the term has maintained its relevance through various historical contexts, reflecting humanity's ongoing challenges against both literal and figurative forms of pestilence.