Definition

A serious viral infection that spreads easily and causes symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches, affecting the respiratory system.

Example

During the winter months, many people catch influenza and have to stay home from work or school.

Conversation

I heard that a lot of people are getting influenza this season.

Yeah, I've seen that too; it's spreading really fast.

I hope I don't catch the influenza virus; it sounds terrible.

Same here! I always get my flu shot just to be safe.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Influenza is derived from the Italian word 'influenza' (meaning influence), which itself comes from the Latin 'influere' (meaning to flow into). The term originally referred to the belief that the disease was influenced by the stars or celestial bodies, as it was thought to flow into people from these external sources.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'influence' — it helps you remember that 'influenza' was once believed to be a disease that flowed into people from the stars.

Visually Confused Words