virulent

The definition of virulent is something very dangerous or harmful. It also is being especially bitter, ardent and hostile.

(adjective)

  1. An example of virulent is an aggressive and deadly disease.
  2. An example of virulent is when you rage a bitter and angry speech against a teacher you don't like.

YourDictionary definition and usage example. Copyright © 2013 by LoveToKnow Corp.

See virulent in Webster's New World College Dictionary

adjective

    1. extremely poisonous or injurious; deadly
    2. bitterly antagonistic or spiteful; full of hate and enmity; venomous; rancorous
  1. Med.
    1. violent and rapid in its course; highly malignant: said of a disease
    2. able to overcome the natural defenses of the host; highly infectious: said of a microorganism

Origin: ME < L virulentus, full of poison < virus: see virus

Related Forms:

See virulent in American Heritage Dictionary 4

adjective
  1. a. Extremely infectious, malignant, or poisonous. Used of a disease or toxin.
    b. Capable of causing disease by breaking down protective mechanisms of the host. Used of a pathogen.
  2. Bitterly hostile or antagonistic; hateful: virulent criticism. See Synonyms at poisonous.
  3. Intensely irritating, obnoxious, or harsh.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English

Origin: , from Latin vīrulentus

Origin: , from vīrus, poison

.

Related Forms:

  • virˈu·lence, virˈu·len·cy noun
  • virˈu·lent·ly adverb

Learn more about virulent

link/cite print suggestion box