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

The man seen in a viral clip from the aftermath of the shooting at the White House Correspondents' Association dinner on April 25 was identified as Creative Artists Agency agent Michael Glantz. —James Powel, USA Today, 26 Apr. 2026

Shirley’s online following grew quickly after his videos in Minnesota went viral and were cited by White House officials amid the federal immigration crackdown in Minneapolis. —Andrew Graham april 26, Sacbee.com, 26 Apr. 2026

Boneless couches are having an internet-viral moment, thanks to their simple convertibility and plush cushioning. —Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Apr. 2026

Continuous coverage and viral content extend the life cycle of every new revelation. —Rick Pozniak, Boston Herald, 26 Apr. 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