contagion
US /kənˈteɪ.dʒən/
UK /kənˈteɪ.dʒən/
1.
the communication of disease from one person or organism to another by close contact
:
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The rapid spread of the virus highlighted the dangers of contagion.
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Strict measures were put in place to prevent further contagion.
2.
the rapid communication of an influence (such as a doctrine or emotion) from one person or place to another
:
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The contagion of fear spread quickly through the crowd.
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The economic crisis showed the contagion effect across global markets.