Virus

Definition

Virus refers to a microscopic infectious agent capable of replicating only within living host cells. It can also describe harmful or corrupting influences, including computer programs designed to disrupt systems.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvaɪ.rəs/
• Respelling: VY-ruhs

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈvaɪ.rəs/
• Respelling: VY-ruhs

Etymology

The word "virus" originates from the Latin "virus," meaning "poison" or "slime," first used in English in the late 14th century to describe venom or harmful substances. Its scientific application to microorganisms began in the late 19th century with the discovery of pathogens like tobacco mosaic virus.

Derivatives

• Viral (adjective)
• Virology (noun)
• Virologist (noun)
• Antiviral (adjective/noun)
• Viruslike (adjective)

Synonyms

• Pathogen
• Infection
• Microbe

Antonyms

• Antibody
• Immunity
• None

Usage

The term "virus" is commonly used in biology, medicine, and technology. For example: "The flu is caused by a virus that spreads through the air." In computing, it refers to malicious software: "The system was infected with a virus."

Related Terms

• Bacteria: Microscopic organisms, some of which cause disease.
• Parasite: An organism living in or on another, causing harm.
• Trojan: A type of malicious software in computing.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A microscopic infectious agent: Refers to entities that infect living cells to replicate.
  • Example: "The researchers studied the virus to develop a vaccine."
• Harmful or corrupting influence: Describes anything that spreads harm, metaphorically or literally.
  • Example: "Misinformation spread through social media like a virus."
• A malicious computer program: Refers to software designed to disrupt or damage systems.
  • Example: "The antivirus software detected a virus and removed it."