myxomatosis

noun

myx·o·ma·to·sis | \mik-ˌsō-mə-ˈtō-səs

Definition of myxomatosis

: a condition characterized by the presence of myxomas in the body specifically : a severe virus disease of rabbits that is caused by a poxvirus (species Myxoma virus of the genus Leporipoxvirus) and transmitted by mosquitoes, biting flies, and direct contact and that has been used in the biological control of rabbits especially in Australia

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These rabbits never develop the skin tumors or any of the classic symptoms of myxomatosis. — Ed Yong, The Atlantic, "The Next Chapter in a Viral Arms Race," 14 Aug. 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'myxomatosis.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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The first known use of myxomatosis was in 1927

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myxomatosis

noun

myx·o·ma·to·sis | \mik-ˌsō-mə-ˈtō-səs

plural myxomatoses\-ˌsēz

Medical Definition of myxomatosis

: a condition characterized by the presence of myxomas in the body specifically : a severe virus disease of rabbits that is caused by a poxvirus (species Myxoma virus of the genus Leporipoxvirus), is transmitted by mosquitoes, biting flies, and direct contact, and has been used in the biological control of wild rabbit populations