epidemic
Translation
epidemic, outbreak
Examples
The city is facing a flu epidemic.
The city is facing a flu epidemic.
There is an epidemic of crime in the area.
There is an epidemic of crime in the area.
Grammar Patterns
((an epidemic of sth.)) a widespread occurrence of (sth.) The city is facing a flu epidemic.
Similar Words
Synonyms: outbreak, plague, scourge
Etymology
From Greek `epi-` 'upon, among' + `demos` 'people'. Something that is 'upon the people'.
Memory Tips
Think of the 'epicenter' of an earthquake spreading out among the 'demos' (people).