Flu

Definition

Flu is a noun that refers to influenza, a contagious viral infection affecting the respiratory system, causing symptoms such as fever, cough, body aches, and fatigue. It can also describe other similar viral illnesses colloquially.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fluː/
• Respelling: FLOO

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /fluː/
• Respelling: FLOO

Etymology

The term "flu" is a shortened form of "influenza," which originated from the Italian word "influenza," meaning "influence," as it was thought to be caused by the influence of stars or planets. It entered English in the 18th century, with "flu" emerging as a colloquial abbreviation in the 19th century.

Derivatives

• Flu-like (adjective)
• Fluency (noun, unrelated meaning)
• Fluoroquinolone (noun, medical)
• Flu-resistant (adjective)
• Flu shot (noun)

Synonyms

• Influenza
• Viral infection
• Cold (colloquial)

Antonyms

• Health
• Wellness
• None

Usage

The noun "flu" is commonly used to describe seasonal illnesses, as in "She is recovering from the flu." It is also used in preventative contexts, such as "Getting a flu shot can reduce the risk of infection."

Related Terms

• Cold: A less severe viral infection of the respiratory system.
• Vaccine: A biological preparation that provides immunity against a disease.
• Epidemic: A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A contagious viral infection affecting the respiratory system: Refers to influenza and its symptoms.
  • Example: "The flu outbreak affected thousands in the city."
• A colloquial term for similar viral illnesses: Used informally to describe illnesses resembling influenza.
  • Example: "He stayed home with a case of the flu."