Definition

A situation where a large number of pests or harmful organisms are present in a specific area, often causing damage or harm.

Example

The garden suffered from an infestation of aphids, which damaged the plants.

Conversation

Have you heard about the infestation in the old warehouse downtown?

Yeah, I read about it! That's really concerning.

I hope they can get rid of the bugs before it spreads further.

Me too! It sounds like a big problem for the neighborhood.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Infestation is formed from "in-" (meaning into) and "festare" (from Latin "festatio", meaning to feast or to consume). The word describes the act of pests entering and consuming a place, akin to a feast of unwanted creatures.

Memory Tip

Think of pests coming 'into' ('in-') a place to 'consume' ('festare') resources, which helps you remember that infestation refers to an overwhelming presence of pests.

Visually Confused Words