infestation
UK: ɪnˌfɛsˈteɪʃən | US: ɪnˌfɛsˈteɪʃən
n. the presence of an unusually large number of pests or parasites in a place, causing damage or disease
n. the state of being overrun or invaded by harmful organisms
infestation = in<into> + fest<hostile> + ation<noun suffix>
- in: Latin prefix meaning "into" or "upon," indicating penetration or invasion.
- fest: Derived from Latin infestare ("to attack, disturb"), from infestus ("hostile"). The root suggests aggression or harmful presence.
- ation: A noun-forming suffix indicating a state or action.
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to Latin infestatio, meaning "a hostile attack." Over time, it evolved to describe the overwhelming presence of pests or parasites, emphasizing invasion and harm. The morphemes logically combine to depict a state where harmful entities penetrate and dominate a space.
The farm suffered an infestation of locusts, destroying the crops.
Poor sanitation led to a severe infestation of rats in the neighborhood.
The hotel was temporarily closed due to a bedbug infestation.
Early detection can prevent a full-scale infestation of termites.
The infestation of invasive weeds threatened the native plant species.