The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48:

Fomes \Fo"mes\ (f[=o]"m[=e]z), n.; pl. Fomites
   (f[o^]m"[i^]*t[=e]z). [L. fomes, -itis, touch-wood, tinder.]
   (Med.)
   Any substance supposed to be capable of absorbing, retaining,
   and transporting contagious or infectious germs; as, woolen
   clothes are said to be active fomites.
   [1913 Webster]