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

Crafted with better-for-you ingredients, Javvy's Instant Protein Coffee blend and viral Coffee Concentrate deliver guilt-free indulgence, offering craveable flavors without compromise. —Tory Johnson, ABC News, 13 Apr. 2026

Fisher, a former amateur boxer, started going viral in 2022 with his reviews of Chinese takeaway orders and trusty catchprase. —Max Goldbart, Deadline, 13 Apr. 2026

Video of the incident was captured on home security cameras and has since gone viral. —Tim Fang, CBS News, 13 Apr. 2026

In an era of viral demand, where products can spike overnight, precision in demand and inventory has become a defining competitive edge. —Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 13 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