Definition

The quality or state of being virulent, which refers to the ability of a pathogen to cause disease or harm.

Example

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

Conversation

Did you hear about the latest report on the flu's virulency?

Yeah, it's pretty alarming how easily it spreads this season.

I know, it really makes me think about getting vaccinated.

Same here! Better safe than sorry, right?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Virulency → It is formed from "virulentus" (from Latin, meaning full of poison or venomous) and the suffix "-cy" (meaning the state or condition of). The word "virulency" refers to the state of being virulent or extremely harmful, especially in the context of disease.

Memory Tip

Think of 'virulentus' meaning full of poison, which helps you remember that 'virulency' describes a harmful or poisonous state.

Visually Confused Words