Definition

A type of virus that belongs to a group of retroviruses, known for causing slow and progressive diseases in humans and animals, such as AIDS.

Example

Researchers are studying lentivirus to develop better treatments for HIV.

Conversation

Have you heard about the lentivirus and how it works?

Yeah, I read that it's related to HIV, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how these viruses can affect the immune system.

I know, it's pretty scary how they slowly progress into serious diseases.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lentivirus is formed from "lenti-" (from Latin "lentus", meaning slow) and "virus" (from Latin, meaning poison or venom). The term describes a type of virus that has a slow progression of disease.

Memory Tip

Think of 'slow' ('lenti-') to remember that a lentivirus causes a slow-developing illness.

Visually Confused Words