virus

/ˈvaɪərəs/

Definitions

1. noun

A submicroscopic infectious agent, typically a protein coat containing a single strand of RNA or DNA, that reproduces inside the living cells of an organism.

“The company developed a vaccine to prevent the spread of the new virus.”

2. noun

A computer program that replicates itself and can cause harm to a computer system.

“The virus was detected in the system and removed by the IT department.”

3. verb

To infect or taint something with a virus.

“The contaminated food may have virused the entire batch.”

4. verb

To cause harm or damage to someone or something, often in a subtle or insidious way.

“The company’s decision to lay off workers will virus the trust of their customers.”

Synonyms

  • bacterium
  • germ
  • microbe
  • pathogen

Antonyms

  • antibody
  • antigen