Definition of infect

The word "infect" originates from the Latin word "infectare," which means "to taint" or "to pollute." In the 14th century, the word "infect" was borrowed into Middle English, initially meaning "to corrupt" or "to spoil." Over time, its meaning shifted to focus on the spread of disease, particularly in the 17th century during the Black Death. In the 18th century, the word gained its modern sense, referring to the introduction of microorganisms into the body, which can cause disease. In the context of biology, "infect" literally means "to bring into contact with" or "to introduce into," referring to the transmission of pathogens, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, from one organism to another. Today, the word "infect" is commonly used in various fields, including medicine, biology, and epidemiology, to describe the process of disease transmission and spread.