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

Creators, however, can adapt instantly to viral moments, local fan reactions, controversies and online trends throughout the tournament. —Ian Shepherd, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026

On a practical note, the French pedicure also leans into TikTok’s viral ‘recession beauty’ trend that favors purse-friendly, low-maintenance beauty choices. —Fiona Embleton, Glamour, 31 May 2026

Cheeks pink with excitement, curly hair flowing and a Hawaiian shirt covered in vegetables over his shoulders, Broccoli Guy has become one of the viral moments of the postseason. —Molly Keshin, New York Times, 31 May 2026

That authenticity is what made the marketing materials go viral. —Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 31 May 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