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

In 2024, the turkey-forward holiday was absolutely dominated by a viral debate on whether or not Younger’s recipe was worth it. —Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 26 Nov. 2025

In a now-viral video on TikTok, Kylie recorded herself in bed with her baby daughter Hailey. —Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 26 Nov. 2025

The viral stunt is the latest evidence of China’s growing strength in robotics, especially the humanoid kinds that can already dance en masse to Chinese music and box in a ring. —Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 26 Nov. 2025

This was highlighted by an inspiring and entertaining presentation from the platform’s global director of culture and trends, Kevin Allocca, who reminded the audience of some classic YouTube viral moments over the years. —Mark Sutherland, Variety, 26 Nov. 2025

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