epizootic

[ ep-uh-zoh-ot-ik ]

adjective

1. (of diseases) spreading quickly among animals.

noun

1. an epizootic disease.

epizootic

/ ˌɛpɪzəʊˈɒtɪk /

adjective

1. (of a disease) suddenly and temporarily affecting a large number of animals over a large area

noun

1. See enzootic
   an epizootic disease Compare enzootic

epizootic

/ ĕp′ĭ-zō-ŏt′ĭk /

Adjective

1. Relating to a rapidly spreading disease that affects a large number of animals at the same time within a particular area.

Noun

1. An epizootic disease.

Derived Forms

• ˌepizoˈotically, adverb

Other Words From

• epi·zo·oti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of epizootic¹

First recorded in 1740–50; epi- + zo(o)- + -otic

Example Sentences

They traveled over hills and down dales, and once they met a lame rabbit, who had the epizootic very bad.

From Project Gutenberg

Then he went on to Grandpa Goosey's where he visited with his epizootic friend and played checkers.

From Project Gutenberg

The horses unfortunately were affected with the epizootic, then raging, and proved a source of inconvenience and annoyance.

From Project Gutenberg

Close contact of plague-infected with healthy animals, if fleas are excluded, does not give rise to an epizootic among the latter.

From Project Gutenberg

He even warned me that I might expect epizootic to set in any day.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• deadly
• endemic
• infectious
• poisonous
• spreading