Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

virus

noun
/ˈvaɪ.rəs/
Definition
A virus is a tiny infectious agent that can only replicate inside the living cells of an organism.
Examples
  • Influenza is caused by a virus that spreads easily among people.
  • Scientists are studying the structure of a newly discovered virus.
Meaning
In the context of biology, a virus is a microscopic entity that can infect living organisms, causing diseases.
Synonyms
  • Pathogen
  • Infectious agent