paramyxovirus

noun para·myxo·vi·rus \ ˌper-ə-ˈmik-sə-ˌvī-rəs , ˌpa-rə- \

Definition of paramyxovirus

: any of a family (Paramyxoviridae) of single-stranded RNA viruses that include the parainfluenza viruses, the respiratory syncytial virus, and the causative agents of canine distemper, measles, mumps, Newcastle disease, and rinderpest

Recent Examples of paramyxovirus from the Web

Wild animals could be used as bioterrorist weapons to spread infectious diseases such as monkeypox, which can be fatal for humans, or avian paramyxovirus, a disease carried by exotic birds that can spread to poultry.

— National Geographic, "The World Has a Chance to Make the Wild Animal Trade More Humane," 26 Feb. 2016

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

Origin and Etymology of paramyxovirus

New Latin

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1962

in the meaning defined above

See Words from the same year

Medical Dictionary

paramyxovirus

noun para·myxo·vi·rus \ ˌpar-ə-ˈmik-sə-ˌvī-rəs \

medical Definition of paramyxovirus

: any of the family Paramyxoviridae of single-stranded RNA viruses — compare myxovirus

Learn More about paramyxovirus

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about paramyxovirus

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