contagium

/kənˈtædʒɪəm/

Definitions

1. noun

A general term for a cause of disease, now often used in reference to a communicable disease agent, such as a bacterium, virus, or fungus.

“The contagium of the virus was spread through the air, causing widespread illness.”

Synonyms

  • infectious agent
  • pathogen

Antonyms

  • antidote
  • cure