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contagio means contagion — a common term in Medical Spanish. Learn how it's used in a real-world example.

📅 Published: November 23, 2025

🩺 Medical Spanish

contagio

noun • /[kon-TA-hyo]/

contagion

Example:

Hubo un contagio en el hospital.

There was an outbreak in the hospital.

🧠 What does contagio mean?

Contagio refers to the transmission of a disease from one person or organism to another, typically through direct or indirect contact. It can also describe the instance of the disease being transmitted. Figuratively, it is used to describe the spread of an emotion, idea, or attitude from one person to another.

📚 Extra examples

  • El lavado de manos es clave para prevenir el contagio de virus.
    Hand washing is key to preventing the contagion of viruses.
  • Existe un alto riesgo de contagio en espacios cerrados y poco ventilados.
    There is a high risk of contagion in closed, poorly ventilated spaces.
  • El contagio de su entusiasmo se extendió por toda la oficina.
    The contagion of his enthusiasm spread throughout the office.

💡 Did You Know?

The word 'contagio' derives from the Latin 'contagium,' which comes from the verb 'contingere,' meaning 'to touch closely.' This etymology reflects the ancient understanding that many diseases spread through physical contact.

🔁 Synonyms & opposites of "contagio"

Synonyms: transmisión, infección, propagación
Opposites: prevención, inmunidad, aislamiento

🔍 See more medical spanish words

❓ FAQ

How do you say 'contagion' in Spanish?
The Spanish word for 'contagion' is "contagio."
How do you pronounce 'contagio' in Spanish?
The pronunciation is kon-TA-khyo. The stress falls on the second syllable, 'TA'. The 'g' has a soft, breathy sound, similar to the 'h' in 'hello'.
How do you use 'contagio' in a sentence?
An example is: "Los médicos estudian la ruta de contagio de la enfermedad." This means, "The doctors are studying the contagion route of the disease."
What is the English translation of 'contagio'?
The primary English translation of 'contagio' is 'contagion.' Depending on the context, it can also be translated as 'infection' or 'transmission'.
Does 'contagio' change for gender or number?
Contagio is a masculine noun. The singular form is 'el contagio,' and the plural form is 'los contagios.' For example, "Se reportaron varios contagios en la ciudad" (Several cases/contagions were reported in the city).
Is 'contagio' common in everyday Spanish?
Yes, 'contagio' is a very common word, especially in conversations about health, news, and public safety. Its use became extremely widespread during global health events.
Does 'contagio' have slang or double meanings?
While its primary meaning is medical, it is often used figuratively to describe the rapid spread of non-physical things, such as 'el contagio de la risa' (the contagion of laughter) or 'el contagio de una idea' (the spread of an idea). It does not have common slang meanings.
Is 'contagio' used differently in Spain vs Latin America?
No, the word 'contagio' is used with the same meaning and context throughout the Spanish-speaking world. There are no significant regional variations.

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