HIV

noun

ˌāch-ˌī-ˈvē 

: either of two retroviruses that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS

called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus

compare hiv-1, hiv-2

Examples of HIV in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Her Kennedy homes design brought her to the attention of the affordable-housing arm of the giant AIDS Healthcare Foundation, which provides health services to people living with HIV around the globe. —Andres Viglucci, Miami Herald, 12 July 2024

Three labs, in Jacksonville, Tampa and Miami, conduct tests for health departments and hospitals, including for infectious diseases such as HIV, hepatitis and COVID-19. —Lawrence Mower, Orlando Sentinel, 12 July 2024

More than 2,400 patients in Oregon may have been exposed to infectious diseases — including Hepatitis B and C, as well as HIV. —Cara Lynn Shultz, Peoplemag, 12 July 2024

Certain chronic viral diseases, such as HIV, hepatitis C, and hepatitis B, can cause persistent, low-level inflammation that progressively damages the kidneys. —Kashif J. Piracha, Verywell Health, 12 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1986, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing HIV

• anti-HIV

Kids Definition

HIV

noun

ˌāch-ˌī-ˈvē 

: any of a group of viruses that infect and destroy helper T cells causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS

Medical Definition

HIV

noun

ˌā-ˌchī-ˈvē 

1

: either of two retroviruses (species Human immunodeficiency virus 1 and 2 of the genus Lentivirus) that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system and that when left untreated cause AIDS

Note: HIV retroviruses are transmitted through contact with blood, semen, rectal and vaginal fluids, or breast milk and typically cause flu-like symptoms during the acute phase of infection, but often cause few or no symptoms during the chronic phase of infection when treated with antiretroviral drugs.

called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus

compare hiv-1, hiv-2

2

: the infection or disease caused by HIV