infest
verb (used with object)
to live in or overrun to an unwanted degree or in a troublesome manner, especially as predatory animals or vermin do.
have infested
-
present perfectof infest.present perfect
Used to describe actions that started in the past and continue into or have direct relevance to the present.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Rats "the same size as a rabbit" have infested a city street where fly-tipping is an ongoing problem, residents say.
From BBC ● Mar. 6, 2026
Ghosts have infested a wealthy widow’s factory and are possessing appliances, seducing her son and cozying up to the prime minister for favors.
From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 5, 2025
These ratty words have infested our media sewers and should be avoided unless actually used in an honest and accurate manner,” Mr. Harrison said.
From Washington Times ● Dec. 17, 2023
For now, Berenger said, this much is certain: “Bedbugs have infested the media.”
From Seattle Times ● Oct. 4, 2023
Artists have infested it; in fact the first wave of artists has almost come and gone, and brass lettering and heating pipes painted fire-engine red and firms of lawyers are taking .over.
From "Cat's Eye" by Margaret Atwood
