CONTAGION Synonyms: 78 Similar and Opposite Words

contagion

noun

Definition of contagion

as in virus

sickness that can be passed from one person, plant, or animal to another The rumors spread like a contagion.

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of contagion Many countries will benefit from similar hedgehog strategies that draw on the technological revolution favoring defense, insulating their territories against contagion. — Mark Leonard, Foreign Affairs, 18 Aug. 2026 The continued appearance of the virus’ telltale rash in state after state since last year warns of cracks in our once-solid protection, leaving communities vulnerable to other deadly contagions. — Patricia Callahan, ProPublica, 18 Aug. 2026 An emotional contagion like panic is always possible, but Vilhauer does not think most people would react that way even to such paradigm-shifting news as nonhuman intelligence. — Jeffrey Kluger, Time, 6 Aug. 2026 Circuit breakers were triggered once again, and contagion across the region saw steep declines for the Nikkei, led by the big tech names. — Leonie Kidd, CNBC, 28 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for contagion

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contagion

Noun

The virus can also cause numerous complications, including ear infections, diarrhea, lasting immune system damage, hospitalization, pneumonia, encephalitis, pregnancy problems and death.

— Finch Walker, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026
His campaign is trying to stamp out the stigma that surrounds an HIV diagnosis and educate people about the basics, such as how the virus can't be spread through touching or sharing food.

— Betsy Joles, NPR, 2 Sep. 2026

Definition of virus

Noun

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy is fighting that plague by injecting some ash trees with an insecticide to give them a chance at survival.

— Amanda Swinhart, Los Angeles Times, 31 Aug. 2026
Instead of the tapered details that plague most sweatpants, this straight-leg style hits right above the ankle to offer a more sophisticated silhouette.

— Kelsey Mulvey, Condé Nast Traveler, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of plague

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contagia

contagion

contagions

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“Contagion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contagion. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of contagion

noun

Example Sentences

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