What does infestation mean?
An infestation is the presence or multiplication of unwanted organisms, especially insects, parasites, or other pests. The term commonly describes problems involving bed bugs, termites, fleas, lice, or mites, and it is often used with “of” to identify what has spread: “an infestation of fleas” or “a termite infestation.” The word carries a strongly negative practical meaning, suggesting that the unwanted organisms have multiplied and are now difficult to control. It can also be used figuratively for an excessive number of intrusive or troublesome things, such as misleading links on a website. In general usage, “infestation” is a countable noun, with “infestations” used for separate occurrences or different kinds of infestation.
nounThe presence or multiplication of unwanted organisms, especially insects, parasites, or other pests, in or on a place, animal, or plant. The word can also refer figuratively to an excessive number of troublesome or unwanted things.
- The presence or multiplication of unwanted organisms, especially insects, parasites, or other pests, in or on a place, animal, or plant.
- An excessive number of troublesome, intrusive, or otherwise unwanted things.
"The old apartment had a serious bed bug infestation."
"The farmhouse is undergoing treatment for a termite infestation."
"The article suffers from an infestation of intrusive pop-ups and unrelated links."
Used for separate occurrences, different sites of infestation, or different kinds of infestation.
"The hotel has dealt with several pest infestations this year."
A few unwelcome guests can become an infestation when nature turns the visit into a full-scale swarm.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does infestation come from?
The English noun comes from Latin infestare, meaning “to make unsafe” or “to molest,” which was based on infestus, “hostile, dangerous, or harmful.” English developed the noun in the sense of a troublesome or unwanted presence, later specializing in unwanted organisms multiplying in or on a place, animal, or plant.
Related word forms
How infestation is actually used
Usually countable and commonly used in the pattern “an infestation of” or “a infestation.” It is generally negative, suggesting an unwanted presence that is difficult to control. Figurative uses can be humorous or satirical.
Easily confused with infestation
An invasion is the act of entering or taking over a place, often by force, whereas an infestation specifically refers to unwanted organisms or pests multiplying in or on something.
Infest is the verb meaning to occupy or trouble something with unwanted organisms, while infestation is the resulting condition or state.