Pathogenic

usgb/ˌpæθəˈdʒenɪk/
adjective

Something that causes disease.

This organism is pathogenic to humans and causes a variety of illnesses.
Visual representation of "pathogenic" - Something that causes disease

Often appears as...

  • pathogenic bacteria
  • pathogenic viruses

Usage tips

Formal

Technical

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pathogenic"
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Technical Term

Used in medical or scientific discussions about diseases and their causes.

Illustration for Technical Term
The lab identified several pathogenic strains affecting the population.
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Context Clues

Look for words related to illness or microbiology to understand when 'pathogenic' is used.

Illustration for Context Clues
Doctors are researching pathogenic factors in the latest epidemic.
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Emotional Connotation

'Pathogenic' may evoke a sense of concern or need for caution, especially in health contexts.

Illustration for Emotional Connotation
Warnings were issued about the pathogenic risks in the contaminated water.
Visual representation of the word "Pathogenic"

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