Definition

A location that is known to promote the spread of disease or is associated with health risks.

Example

The old, abandoned building became a pesthole for various diseases due to its poor sanitation.

Conversation

Have you heard about that area downtown that everyone is worried about?

Yeah, they say it’s basically a pesthole for diseases.

I can't believe they let it get that bad.

Right? It should be cleaned up before it gets worse.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'pesthole' is formed from 'pest' (from Old French *peste*, meaning plague or disease) and 'hole' (from Old English *hol*, meaning an opening or hollow place). The term refers to a hole or place associated with pestilence or disease.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'pest' as something harmful or diseased, and a 'hole' as an opening — together, they remind you that a pesthole is a place associated with disease.

Visually Confused Words