as in virus
an abnormal state caused by contact with harmful organisms (such as bacteria or viruses)
There is a viral infection spreading among the schoolchildren.
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Recent Examples of infection
All of these vaccine-preventable illnesses can lead to severe infections or death and have limited to no treatment options.
—
Dr. Jade Cobern, ABC News, 7 Jan. 2026
This year’s brutal flu season is a reminder of just how devastating even routine infections can be.
—Tom Bartlett, The Atlantic, 7 Jan. 2026
Vaccinating children also helped protect pregnant women by curbing the spread of infection.
—Jake Scott, Washington Post, 7 Jan. 2026
That single step launches the infection.
—Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 7 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for infection
Recent Examples of Synonyms for infection
Noun
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While human infections remain rare, a person infected with the virus died in Louisiana last year.—
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The flu shot should be taken every year, as the virus is constantly changing, per the OSDH.—
Noun
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Never wear your lenses while asleep, either, since that can cause dryness, irritation, abrasions and entrapment of germs that can lead to serious infections.—
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These surfaces might not be covered in spatters, but cleaning them can help to prevent the spread of germs and keep this high-profile kitchen appliance looking presentable.—
Cite this Entry
“Infection.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/infection. Accessed 20 Jan. 2026.
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