a disease caused by deficiency of niacin or tryptophan (or by a defect in the metabolic conversion of tryptophan to niacin); characterized by gastrointestinal disturbances and erythema and nervous or mental disorders; may be caused by malnutrition or alcoholism or other nutritional impairments
easily spread; "fear is exceedingly infectious; children catch it from their elders"- Bertrand Russell
caused by infection or capable of causing infection; "viruses and other infective agents"; "a carrier remains infective without himself showing signs of the disease"
of or relating to infection; "infectious hospital"; "infectious disease"
designed or tending to discredit, especially without positive or helpful suggestions; "negative criticism"
(sometimes followed by `to') causing harm or injury; "damaging to career and reputation"; "the reporter's coverage resulted in prejudicial publicity for the defendant"