Infiltration

noun

/ˌɪn.fɪlˈtreɪ.ʃən/

The covert entry of persons or small groups across a border or into enemy territory, typically to conduct hostile activities such as terrorism, espionage, or smuggling.

✍️ Usage in a UPSC answer

Persistent cross-border infiltration by armed militants has compelled the state to recalibrate its internal-security architecture, balancing robust border management with the constitutional safeguards owed to genuine residents.

Synonyms

penetrationincursionintrusionpermeationencroachmentseepage

Antonyms

withdrawalexpulsionexclusioneviction

🌱 Word Family

infiltrate (v), infiltrator (n), infiltrated (adj), infiltrating (v pres.p), infiltrative (adj)

🔡 Root

Medieval Latin infiltrāre = to strain in; in- = into; filtrāre = to filter

📜 Etymology

From Medieval Latin infiltrāre ("to strain in"), from Latin in- ("into") + filtrāre ("to filter"); military usage emerged in the early 20th century.

🧠 Memory Hook

In + FILTER + ation: think of something quietly seeping IN through a FILTER, just as a spy or seeping water slips in unnoticed through the gaps.

📝 Seen in UPSC Question Papers

Mains 2022 · GS4 · 20 marks — Ethics in Public Administration

Real UPSC previous-year questions whose text uses “Infiltration” — proof this word earns its place on your list.

🛡️ Internal Security 📖 Seen in: Border Management — Forces, Challenges...

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