infest

Universal Words verb [VN] [usuallypassive] (especially of insects or animals such as rats) to exist in large numbers in a particular place, often causing damage or disease: shark-infested waters * The kitchen was infested with ants. * These parasites infest the gills of freshwater fish. infestation noun [C,U]: an infestation of lice * Scientists are checking for both insect and fungal infestation.