Definition

Referring to something that is smaller than a virus or related to a part of a virus, such as a protein.

Example

The research focused on subviral particles that could influence the behavior of the virus.

Conversation

Did you hear about the new research on subviral particles?

Yeah, I read that they're even smaller than viruses!

It's fascinating how they can affect health without being full viruses themselves.

Absolutely! It opens up a whole new area of study in virology.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subviral → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "viral" (from Latin "virus", meaning poison or slimy liquid, which in modern usage refers to viruses). The word "subviral" refers to something that is below or related to viruses, often used in a biological context to describe entities that are smaller than viruses or related to viral activity.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sub-' meaning 'under' and 'viral' relating to 'viruses' — so subviral refers to something that is under or related to viruses.

Visually Confused Words