infiltration

[in-fil-trey-shuhn]

noun

1. the act or process of infiltrating.

2. the state of being infiltrated.

3. something that infiltrates; an infiltrate.

4. Military.

   1. a method of attack in which small bodies of soldiers or individual soldiers penetrate the enemy's line at weak or unguarded points in order to assemble behind the enemy position and attack it from the rear, harass enemy rear-area installations, etc.

   2. a system of transporting troops or vehicles at extended and irregular intervals so as to avoid enemy observation or attack, especially from the air.

5. Geology.,  the seepage of water into soil or rock.

Other Word Forms

• reinfiltration noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of infiltration¹

First recorded in 1790–1800; infiltrate + -ion

Example Sentences

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli said he was "deeply saddened" by the violence and casualty toll, blaming the day's events on "infiltration by various vested interest groups".

From BBC

Members are encouraged to stay secretive, prepare for societal collapse and build a network of committed, fit men ready to act through infiltration, activism or violence.

From Salon

Think subversion through infiltration — or revolution through stealth.

From Los Angeles Times

Iran is now reported to be following leads of infiltration by Israeli agents.

From BBC

Recent demonstrations have turned violent, with reports of infiltration by "goons", who are accused of looting and attacking protesters.

From BBC

Related Words

• aggression 
• assault 
• breach 
• incursion 
• infringement 
• intrusion 
• offensive 
• onslaught 
• raid 
• violation