superinfection

noun

su·​per·​in·​fec·​tion ˌsü-pər-in-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce superinfection (audio)
: reinfection or a second infection with a microbial agent (such as a bacterium, fungus, or virus)
superinfect transitive verb

Examples of superinfection in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Over time, these pathologies can lead to obstruction of the biliary duct with adult worms or calcium bilirubinate stones, and predispose the host to bacterial superinfection, liver abscesses and hepatitis (d). Rebecca Kreston, Discover Magazine, 10 Apr. 2011

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'superinfection.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1893, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of superinfection was in 1893

Dictionary Entries Near superinfection

Cite this Entry

“Superinfection.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/superinfection. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

superinfection

noun
su·​per·​in·​fec·​tion -in-ˈfek-shən How to pronounce superinfection (audio)
: a second infection superimposed on an earlier one especially by a different microbial agent of exogenous or endogenous origin that is resistant to the treatment used against the first infection
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