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contagion

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The definition of contagion is an infectious disease spread through contact, or the transmission of a disease from one person to another through contact, or the spread of a bad or harmful idea or practice.

(noun)

The virus that causes a staph infection is an example of a contagion.
The spread of a staph infection from one patient to another as a result of close contact in a hospital is an example of contagion.
The spread of a dangerous political idea like communism from one person to another is an example of contagion.

See contagion in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

the spreading of disease from one individual to another by direct or indirect contact
any disease thus spread; contagious disease
the causative agent of a communicable disease; bacteria or virus
contagious quality
1. the spreading of an emotion, idea, custom, etc. from person to person until many are affected: the contagion of mirth
2. the emotion, idea, etc. so spread
a bad influence that tends to spread; corruption

Origin: ME contagioun < L contagio, a touching < contingere: see contact

See contagion in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

a. Disease transmission by direct or indirect contact.
b. A disease that is or may be transmitted by direct or indirect contact; a contagious disease.
c. The direct cause, such as a bacterium or virus, of a communicable disease.
Psychology The spread of a behavior pattern, attitude, or emotion from person to person or group to group through suggestion, propaganda, rumor, or imitation.
A harmful, corrupting influence: feared that violence on television was a contagion affecting young viewers.
The tendency to spread, as of a doctrine, influence, or emotional state.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English contagioun

Origin: , from Latin contāgiō, contāgiōn-

Origin: , from contingere, contāct-, to touch; see contact

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