Definition

The condition of being able to spread from one person to another, especially in relation to diseases.

Example

The contagiousness of the flu makes it important to get vaccinated.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new virus going around?

Yeah, I heard it's got a high contagiousness rate.

That's really concerning; I hope it doesn't spread too quickly.

Me too! We should make sure to wash our hands often.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Contagiousness is formed from "contagious" (from Latin "contagiosus", meaning touching or infectious) and the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state or quality of). The word refers to the quality of being able to spread from one person to another, particularly in the context of disease.

Memory Tip

Think of 'contagious' as something that can 'touch' or 'infect' others, and '-ness' indicates a state. This helps you remember that contagiousness is the state of being able to spread.

Visually Confused Words