Definition

Relating to a type of virus that can insert its genetic material into the DNA of a host cell.

Example

The retroviral therapy was effective in treating the patient's condition.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new retroviral treatment for HIV?

Yeah, I read an article about it last week.

It's amazing how far science has come with retroviral therapies.

Absolutely! It gives so much hope to those affected.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Retroviral → It is formed from "retro-" (meaning backward) and "virus" (from Latin "virus", meaning poison or slimy liquid). The term refers to viruses that replicate in a backward manner, specifically by transcribing their RNA into DNA.

Memory Tip

Think of 'retro-' meaning 'backward' and 'virus' meaning 'poison' — this helps you remember that retroviral refers to viruses that work in a backward way.

Visually Confused Words