Definition

In a way that is extremely harmful or hostile, often used to describe aggressive or severe actions or attitudes.

Example

The disease spread virulently, affecting many people in a short time.

Conversation

Did you see how some people reacted virulently to that new policy?

Yeah, it was surprising to see such strong feelings.

I didn't expect the backlash to be so virulently against it.

Me neither! It shows how passionate people can be about changes.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Virulently → It is formed from "virulentus" (from Latin, meaning full of poison or venom) and the suffix "-ly" (meaning in a manner of). The word "virulently" means in a manner that is full of poison or hostility, often used to describe something that is extremely harmful or aggressive.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'full of poison' ('virulentus') to remember that 'virulently' describes an extremely harmful or aggressive manner.

Visually Confused Words