viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl 

1

: of, relating to, or caused by a virus

a viral infection

2

: quickly and widely spread or popularized especially by means of social media

a viral video

virally

ˈvī-rə-lē 

adverb

virality

vī-ˈra-lə-tē 

noun

Examples of viral in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

When aesthetics translate directly to viral content, physical retail benefits from the same distribution engine as e-commerce, and stores designed for the camera end up winning the foot traffic too. — Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 27 July 2026

Bystander video showing an officer hitting the woman Lee was with 17 times previously went viral and garnered widespread criticism. — Julia Coin updated July 27, Charlotte Observer, 27 July 2026

Taken together, these examples point to a broader structural shift rather than a handful of isolated viral moments. — Olivia Shalhoup, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026

Channel 5 is is known for its viral, off-kilter political coverage and for hosting controversial interviews with actor Shia LaBeouf and fitness influencer Clavicular. — Usa Today, USA Today, 27 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

vir(us) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing viral

• viral load
• viral marketing

Rhymes for viral

• chiral
• spiral
• adenoviral
• antiretroviral
• antiviral
• retroviral

Kids Definition

viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl 

1

: of, relating to, or caused by a virus

a viral infection

2

: quickly and widely spread or popularized especially by person-to-person electronic communication

a viral video

Medical Definition

viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl 

: of, relating to, or caused by a virus

viral infections

virally

-rə-lē 

adverb