virus

noun

Definition of virusnext
as in disease

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of virus Doctors isolated him and tests later confirmed Bundibugyo virus, a form of Ebola. — Nimi Princewill, CNN Money, 10 Oct. 2026 An early advocate for the theory that the Covid-19 virus was engineered in and leaked from a lab in China is no longer the leading choice to be America’s top infectious disease expert, a source with knowledge of the decision told STAT. — Anil Oza, STAT, 9 Oct. 2026 People infected with the flu can spread the virus beginning about one day before symptoms appear and for roughly five to seven days after becoming sick, according to the CDC. — Sacbee.com, 9 Oct. 2026 Was the virus spreading between people – the start of a pandemic that could kill millions? — Raj Panjabi, Fortune, 9 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for virus
Recent Examples of Synonyms for virus
  1. disease
  2. contagion
Noun
  • The first is to dramatically accelerate the pace of basic science, and the second is to accelerate curing disease and extending health span.
    — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 14 Oct. 2026
  • DeVeydt added that costs for inpatient services and pharmacy, particularly costly specialty pharmacy drugs for cancer and rare diseases, remain elevated.
    — Annika Kim Constantino, CNBC, 13 Oct. 2026
Definition of disease
Noun
  • The Cowboys will look to cut off the potential of a contagion being further passed around the locker room ahead of their Week 6 clash with the Green Bay Packers on Sunday night at Lambeau Field.
    — Nick Harris, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 Oct. 2026
  • But most of our group behavior arises through a qualitatively different process than local contagion.
    — Michael Morris, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2026
Definition of contagion

Browse Nearby Words

virulently
virus
viruses
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Cite this Entry

“Virus.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/virus. Accessed 18 Oct. 2026.

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Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about virus

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