Definition

A complete particle of a virus that contains genetic material and is surrounded by a protein coat, making it capable of infecting a host.

Example

The scientist studied the virion to understand how it infects cells.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a virion?

Yeah, I think it's the basic unit of a virus, right?

Exactly! It's like the complete package that can infect cells.

That's so interesting; I never knew it was called a virion!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Virion is formed from "virus" (from Latin "virus", meaning poison or slimy liquid) and the suffix "-ion" (meaning a process or condition). The term "virion" refers to a complete virus particle, emphasizing its status as a distinct entity or condition.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'virus' as a 'poison' and the '-ion' indicating a state or condition, which helps you remember that a 'virion' is a complete virus particle.

Visually Confused Words