the act or process of infecting.-that which infects, or causes the communicated disease; any effluvium, miasm, or pestilential matter by which an infectious disease is caused.-the state of being infected; contamination by morbific particles; the result of infecting influence; a prevailing disease; epidemic.-that which taints or corrupts morally; as, the infection of vicious principles.-contamination by illegality, as in cases of contraband goods; implication.-sympathetic communication of like qualities or emotions; influence.