infect
in.fect \in-'fekt\ \-'fek-t*r\ vt [ME infecten, fr. L infectus, pp. of inficere, fr. in-]+ facere to make, do - more at DO 1: to contaminate with a disease-producing substance, germs, or bacteria 2a: to communicate a pathogen or a disease to of a pathogenic organism 2b: to invade (an individual or organ) usu. by penetration 3a: CONTAMINATE, CORRUPT 3b: to work upon or seize upon so as to induce sympathy, belief, or suppor t - in.fec.tor n