Infest

Meaning:

The verb “infest” denotes the unwelcome presence or invasion of a large number of pests, parasites, or harmful organisms within a particular area, object, or population. This term is often associated with the detrimental effects of unwanted creatures, such as insects, rodents, or microorganisms, on their host environment. This term implies an invasive, often overwhelming presence that disrupts the normal state or balance of a host environment, whether it be a home, ecosystem, or population. Infestations can cause damage, discomfort, and pose health risks, making them a concern in various contexts, such as pest-infested households, crop fields besieged by insects, or forests threatened by invasive species. The word "infest" underscores the idea of a pervasive and undesirable presence that disrupts the natural balance or order of a system.