infection

/ɪnˈfɛkʃən/noun

An illness or condition caused when harmful germs, such as bacteria or viruses, get into the body and multiply.

Example sentences

“The cut on his knee developed an infection.”
“She is taking antibiotics for a chest infection.”
“Wash your hands often to lower the risk of infection.”

Common pairs: ear infection, throat infection, viral or bacterial infection; you catch, get, or fight off an infection. An infectious disease is caused by germs, while a contagious one also passes easily from person to person.

health

Often confused with infection

infection vs inflammation

Related words

diagnosisThe act, or an instance, of working out what illness or condition a person has and what is causing it.immuneUnable to catch a disease, either through natural resistance or because of vaccination.clinicA place where people receive medical care, especially patients who do not stay overnight.nutritionThe food and substances that a body needs to stay healthy and grow.acheTo feel a steady, dull pain, or to be the cause of such pain.wellnessThe state of being healthy in body and mind, sometimes covering safety as well.