Infested

The term 'infested' describes a place, area, or organism being overrun or populated by undesirable creatures or things, such as insects, parasites, vermin, diseases, or even unwanted groups of people or elements. It indicates a significant and often unwelcome presence of these elements, often causing damage, harm, or distress. The severity can vary from a mild annoyance to a severe problem, dependent on the nature of the infesting agent and the context in which the word is used. It implies a disruption of the natural order and sometimes suggests a challenge in eradicating or controlling the intrusive entity.

Infested meaning with examples

• The old farmhouse, neglected for years, was heavily infested with rats and mice, making it uninhabitable. The decaying structure offered ample shelter and food sources, fostering a rapid increase in the rodent population. Eradication efforts required professional intervention and comprehensive pest control measures.
• During the drought, the farmer's crops became infested with locusts, leading to widespread devastation across the fields. The relentless swarm devoured the leaves and stems, leaving behind bare stalks. The farmer desperately tried to implement insecticide but was defeated.
• The abandoned apartment building was infested with squatters and drug dealers, making it dangerous to enter. Law enforcement struggled to regain control as the unwanted presence, leading to increased crime. The neighbourhood residents wanted their homes back.
• After the tropical storm, many homes were infested with mold, posing a health hazard to the residents. The damp conditions provided ideal environments for the fungus. Remediation required removal of the contaminated materials and thorough drying of the affected areas.
• The ship, after a long voyage, was found to be infested with barnacles, which increased drag and reduced speed. The hull of the vessel provided an environment for the aquatic creatures, hindering its performance. The infestation required thorough cleaning in drydock.