Pronunciation: [ɪnfˈɛst] (IPA) 
The word "infest" is spelled with six letters and consists of two syllables. It is pronounced as /ɪnˈfɛst/, with the stress on the first syllable. In IPA phonetic transcription, it is written as [ɪnˈfɛst]. The word means to invade or be present in large numbers in a place, often referring to pests or insects. It is important to spell this word correctly to convey the intended meaning and avoid confusion.
Infest is a verb that refers to the presence or occurrence of a large number of something harmful, irritating, or unwanted in a particular place, often resulting in an unpleasant or destructive situation. It commonly describes the invasion or overrunning of pests or parasites in an area, but can also venture into figurative and abstract contexts.
When used in the context of pests or parasites, to infest means that a large number of insects, rodents, or other organisms overrun and populate a specific location, such as a house, garden, or crops. These infestations can cause significant damage, health hazards, or annoyance to human beings or other living creatures. For instance, a home can be infested by termites, a farm can be infested by locusts, or a dog can be infested with fleas.
In a figurative sense, infest can describe a situation where an overwhelming number of negative or unwanted things, ideas, or emotions invade a person's mind or a collective space. For example, someone's mind might be infested with doubts, fears, or intrusive thoughts, while social media platforms can be infested with hate speech, bogus information, or toxic behavior.
Overall, the term infest conveys the idea of a population multiplying rapidly and causing problems, whether it be physical pests infiltrating an area or intangible elements overpowering an individual or society.
To trouble greatly; to disturb; to harass; to annoy by presence and numbers, as vermin.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "infest" derives from the Latin word "infestare", which is a combination of "in" meaning "in" or "on" and "festus" meaning "occupied" or "harassed". The Latin verb "infestare" means "to disturb", "to annoy", or "to trouble". Over time, this Latin term evolved into the Old French word "infester", which means "to bother" or "to torment". Eventually, "infest" entered the English language, retaining its meaning as a verb to describe an invasion or annoyance by pests, invading forces, or anything causing disturbance or trouble.
