any of a family (Herpesviridae) of DNA viruses variously affecting certain vertebrates and invertebrates, esp. the viruses causing herpes simplex, herpes zoster, and chickenpox in human beings
See herpesvirus in American Heritage Dictionary 4
nounpl.her·pes·vi·rus·es
Any of a group of DNA-containing animal viruses that form characteristic inclusion bodies within the nuclei of host cells and cause diseases such as chickenpox, infectious mononucleosis, herpes simplex, and shingles.