Pronunciation: /ˈvaɪrəs/

Definitions of virus

noun an infective agent that typically consists of a nucleic acid molecule in a protein coat, is too small to be seen by light microscopy, and is able to multiply only within the living cells of a host

Example Sentences

A1 A virus is a tiny organism that can make you sick.

A2 It is important to protect your computer from viruses by installing antivirus software.

B1 The flu virus can spread quickly through coughing and sneezing.

B2 Researchers are working on developing a vaccine to combat the spread of the Zika virus.

C1 The computer virus caused a major data breach in the company's system.

C2 Scientists are studying the genetic makeup of the virus to better understand how it mutates and spreads.

Examples of virus in a Sentence

formal The virus has spread rapidly throughout the population, causing widespread concern.

informal I heard there's a nasty virus going around, so make sure to wash your hands frequently.

slang Dude, that virus is no joke - stay safe out there!

figurative Negativity can spread like a virus, infecting those around you with its toxic influence.

Grammatical Forms of virus

plural

viruses

comparative

more virulent

superlative

most virulent

present tense

virus

future tense

will virus

perfect tense

has virus

continuous tense

is virusing

singular

virus

positive degree

virus

infinitive

to virus

gerund

virusing

participle

virusing

Origin and Evolution of virus

First Known Use: 1392 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The word 'virus' originated from the Latin word 'virus' which means poison or slimy liquid.
Evolution of the word: Originally used to describe a poisonous substance, the term 'virus' evolved over time to refer to infectious agents that can replicate inside living cells.