infectious
UK/ɪn'fekʃəs/US/in'fekʃәs/
IELTSTOEFLB2
Definitions
adj.
(Of a disease) able to be spread from one person or organism to another.
传染性的；有传染力的。
adj.
(Of feelings or moods) quickly spreading to others.
（情绪等）有感染力的，容易蔓延的。
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedinfect + -ious = 'tending to infect.' Carries both senses of infect: a disease that spreads (infectious illness) and a mood that spreads (infectious laughter). See infect.
Root fac still carries 273 more wordsUsage Guide
- infectious vs contagious: both mean spreadable, but contagious stresses spread by direct contact/touch, infectious stresses spread by germs in air, water, or food. Most everyday speakers use them loosely.
- Only infectious has the positive figurative use: infectious enthusiasm/laughter.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Measles is a highly infectious disease.
- 2.
Her laughter was so infectious the whole table joined in.