plague (B2)

noun

Pronunciation: /ˈpleɪɡ/

Definition

A serious, infectious disease that spreads quickly and kills a large number of people, or a disease that has this characteristic.

Examples

• The Black Death was a devastating plague that swept across Europe in the 14th century.

• Scientists are working to find a cure for the new plague that is affecting livestock.

• The city was put under quarantine to prevent the spread of the deadly plague.

How to Use plague

plague of (prepositional phrase)

A large number of troublesome things or people. — "The city was suffering from a plague of locusts."

plagued by (prepositional phrase)

To be troubled or annoyed by something or someone. — "He was plagued by debt after the business failed."

Synonyms of plague

Words with a similar meaning to plague:

• epidemic
• pestilence
• contagion
• affliction

Antonyms of plague

Words with the opposite meaning to plague:

• health
• cure

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