infection

 
Pronunciation: /ɪnˈfɛkʃ(ə)n/

noun

[mass noun]
  • the process of infecting or the state of being infected: strict hygiene will limit the risk of infection a reddening of the skin at the site of infection
  • [count noun] an infectious disease: a chest infection
  • Computing the presence of a virus in, or its introduction into, a computer system.

Origin:

late Middle English: from late Latin infectio(n-), from Latin inficere 'dip in, taint' (see infect)