Fomite
noun
A fomite is any surface or object that can carry germs and facilitate the spread of disease.
Virus can survive on a fomite, such as a doorknob, and be transferred to a person when touched.

Often appears as...
- fomite transmission
- fomite surface
Usage tips
Neutral
General
noun
A fomite is any surface or object that can carry germs and facilitate the spread of disease.
Virus can survive on a fomite, such as a doorknob, and be transferred to a person when touched.

Often appears as...
- fomite transmission
- fomite surface
Usage tips
Neutral
General
Definition 1 of 1

Context
Understand how 'fomite' relates to disease spread
In hospitals, surfaces are often cleaned to reduce fomite risks.
Formality
Know the medical context of 'fomite'
In casual conversation, you might say 'germ-carrying object' instead.
Nuance
Recognize that not all surfaces are equal in terms of fomite potential
Plastic surfaces can harbor viruses longer than fabrics.
Context
Understand how 'fomite' relates to disease spread
In hospitals, surfaces are often cleaned to reduce fomite risks.
Formality
Know the medical context of 'fomite'
In casual conversation, you might say 'germ-carrying object' instead.
Nuance
Recognize that not all surfaces are equal in terms of fomite potential
Plastic surfaces can harbor viruses longer than fabrics.
Context
Understand how 'fomite' relates to disease spread
In hospitals, surfaces are often cleaned to reduce fomite risks.
Formality
Know the medical context of 'fomite'
In casual conversation, you might say 'germ-carrying object' instead.
Nuance
Recognize that not all surfaces are equal in terms of fomite potential
Plastic surfaces can harbor viruses longer than fabrics.
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension