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epidemic

noun C1 Formal

Meaning

An epidemic is a widespread occurrence of an infectious disease within a specific geographic area or population during a particular time period, characterized by an increase in the number of cases above what is normally expected, often necessitating publi
💡 While "epidemic" is often used to refer specifically to infectious diseases, it can also be applied metaphorically to describe rapid increases in non-infectious phenomena, such as "an epidemic of misinformation." Care should be taken to avoid conflating it with "pandemic," which denotes a more widespread, global occurrence.

Example Sentences

The company addressed the epidemic's impact on employee productivity quickly .
The epidemic significantly impacted public health policies worldwide .
The epidemic spread quickly due to poor sanitation and overcrowding .
The government implemented strict measures to control the epidemic spread .

Word in Context

When news spread that a local epidemic had emerged , the small neighbourhood gathered at the community centre to discuss practical steps . Residents , visibly concerned yet determined , listened as the nurse explained simple precautions everyone could adopt . They agreed to set up a rota for grocery runs to protect older neighbours and to monitor symptoms carefully . Although the mood was serious , people found comfort in sharing tasks and in the clear guidelines that reduced uncertainty . By keeping routine contact through brief check - ins and by following hygiene measures , the community hoped to mitigate the worst effects while awaiting official updates .

Common Phrases

epidemic outbreak epidemic curve epidemic control measures

Synonyms

Antonyms

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