Pronunciation: /ˈfoʊmaɪts/

Definitions of fomites

noun objects or materials that are likely to carry infection, such as clothing, utensils, and furniture

Example Sentences

A1 Fomites are objects or materials that can carry infectious organisms and contribute to the spread of disease.

A2 It is important to regularly clean and disinfect fomites such as doorknobs and countertops to prevent the transmission of germs.

B1 Healthcare workers must be aware of fomites in hospital settings and take precautions to minimize the risk of contamination.

B2 Studies have shown that fomites play a significant role in the transmission of certain viruses, such as the flu.

C1 Research is ongoing to better understand the role of fomites in the spread of infectious diseases and develop strategies to mitigate their impact.

C2 Advanced cleaning techniques and technologies are being implemented in high-risk environments to effectively eliminate fomites and reduce the risk of infections.

Examples of fomites in a Sentence

formal Healthcare workers are trained to properly disinfect fomites to prevent the spread of infections in hospitals.

informal Make sure to wash your hands regularly to avoid picking up germs from fomites like doorknobs and keyboards.

slang I always carry hand sanitizer with me to kill any germs I might pick up from fomites in public places.

figurative Negative thoughts can act as fomites, spreading doubt and fear throughout your mind.

Grammatical Forms of fomites

past tense

fomited

plural

fomites

comparative

more fomite

superlative

most fomite

present tense

fomites

future tense

will fomite

perfect tense

have fomited

continuous tense

is fomiting

singular

fomite

positive degree

fomite

infinitive

to fomite

gerund

fomiting

participle

fomiting

Origin and Evolution of fomites

First Known Use: 1673 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'fomites' originated from the Latin word 'fomes' which means 'tinder' or 'kindling'.
Evolution of the word: Over time, the meaning of 'fomites' evolved to refer to objects or materials that can carry infectious agents and contribute to the spread of disease.