Definition

The quality or state of being extremely harmful or infectious, especially in relation to diseases.

Example

The virulence of the virus made it difficult to control the outbreak.

Conversation

Did you hear about that new virus going around?

Yeah, I read that its virulence is really high this time.

That's concerning! I hope they can develop a vaccine quickly.

Same here, the faster they can control the virulence, the better for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Virulence → It is formed from "virulentus" (meaning poisonous or full of venom) and the suffix "-ence" (indicating a state or quality). The word "virulence" refers to the quality of being virulent, or extremely harmful and infectious, particularly in the context of pathogens.

Memory Tip

Think of 'virulentus' meaning poisonous, which helps you remember that 'virulence' describes the harmful quality of something, especially in terms of disease.

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