Infestation Meaning
/ˌɪnfɛsˈteɪ̯ʃən/Definition, CEFR level B2, pronunciation, examples, and quiz.
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Definition
nounThe presence of a large number of pest organisms in an area or field, on the surface of a host or anything that might contact a host, or in the soil.
Sentence Examples
Tom's home has a kobold infestation.
Sami's club has a roach infestation.
Ziri is having a rat infestation in his mansion.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms:
Antonyms:
None
CEFR Practice Quiz
The kitchen was overrun by cockroaches, indicating a serious ____ that needed immediate treatment.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The old wooden house had a serious ____ of termites that threatened its entire structure.
Word Origin & History
From Middle French infestation, from Late Latin infestatio. Morphologically infest + -ation.
Literary Quotations & Historical Citations
"Guatemalan snowpea production has continually been harmed by insect and disease infestations."
— 2007, George W. Norton, E. A. Heinrichs, Gregory C. Luther, Globalizing Integrated Pest Management: A Participatory Research Process, page 87:
"You've probably heard about Beemageddon. Over the past few years, colony collapse disorder – thought to be brought on by a pernicious combination of overwork, bad weather, pesticides and infestations of parasitic varroa mites – has been threatening to wipe out honeybees all over the world, and with them many of our food crops."
— 2013 November 16, Caroline Williams, “I, bee bot”, in New Scientist, page 43:
"A. The exterior of the premises and all structures thereon shall be kept free of all nuisances, unsanitary conditions and fire or safety hazards in the public areas and any of the foregoing shall be removed and abated promptly by the owner or manager.
B. Without limiting the generality of Subsection A, the maintenance includes: . . . (3) Keeping the premises free of conditions conducive to infestation by vermin or insects, such as rodent harborages or stagnant water, and other known sources of infestation."
— 2016, Jersey City, N.J. Code of Ordinances § 254-43. - Maintenance of exterior of premises:
""We have done some targeted pest control, and it has made a huge difference. It's a serious topic. We looked at why there were so many power trips at Ladbroke Grove. And it was an infestation of birds.""
— 2025 May 28, Paul Clifton, “Project Brunel on the right line”, in RAIL, number 1036, page 28:
Explore More B2 Vocabulary Words
CEFR Practice Quiz
The kitchen was overrun by cockroaches, indicating a serious ____ that needed immediate treatment.
CEFR Practice Quiz (Alternate)
The old wooden house had a serious ____ of termites that threatened its entire structure.