First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
virulent
adjective vir·u·lent \ˈvir-ə-lənt, ˈvir-yə-\
: full of hate or anger
: extremely or excessively harsh or strong
: extremely dangerous and deadly and usually spreading very quickly
Full Definition of VIRULENT
1
a : marked by a rapid, severe, and destructive course <a virulent infection> b : able to overcome bodily defensive mechanisms : markedly pathogenic <virulent bacteria>
2
: extremely poisonous or venomous
3
: full of malice : malignant <virulent racists>
4
: objectionably harsh or strong <virulent criticism>
— vir·u·lent·ly adverb
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Origin of VIRULENT
Middle English, from Latin virulentus, from virus poison
Related to VIRULENT
- Synonyms
- bad [slang], bitchy, catty, cruel, despiteful, malevolent, malicious, malign, malignant, mean, nasty, spiteful, vicious, hateful
- Antonyms
- benevolent, benign, benignant, loving, unmalicious
Other Microbiology Terms
VIRULENT Defined for Kids
virulent
adjective vir·u·lent \ˈvir-ə-lənt\
Definition of VIRULENT for Kids
: spreading quickly and causing serious harm <a virulent disease>
Medical Dictionary
virulent
adjective vir·u·lent \-lənt\
Medical Definition of VIRULENT
1
a : marked by a rapid, severe, and malignant course <a virulent infection> b : able to overcome bodily defense mechanisms <a virulent pathogen>
2
: extremely poisonous or venomous : noxious
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