# infestation

/ˌɪnˈfɛsˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /ɪnfɛstˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/infestation
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

the presence of a large number of pests, like insects or rats, in a place where they cause damage or health problems.

For teachers: the state of being invaded or overrun by pests or parasites in numbers large enough to be harmful or obnoxious.

## Examples

- The landlord had to deal with a serious ant infestation.
- Health inspectors closed the restaurant immediately after discovering a severe rodent infestation in the dry storage area.
- Agricultural experts warned that the locust infestation could devastate the region's wheat crops if containment measures were not implemented before the next breeding cycle.

## Usage notes

- Uncountable when referring to the general state of being infested; countable when referring to a specific instance or occurrence.

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