Main Entry: vir·u·lent

Pronunciation: \ˈvir-ə-lənt, ˈvir-yə-\

Function: adjective

Etymology: Middle English, from Latin virulentus, from virus poison

Date: 14th century

1 a : marked by a rapid, severe, and destructive course <a virulent infection> b : able to overcome bodily defensive mechanisms : markedly pathogenic <virulent bacteria>
2 : extremely poisonous or venomous
3 : full of malice : malignant <virulent racists>
4 : objectionably harsh or strong <virulent criticism>

— vir·u·lent·ly adverb