Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Flu Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🤒
Add to dictionary

flu

[fluː ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

medical

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It typically starts suddenly and can cause mild to severe illness, and sometimes lead to hospitalization or even death.

Synonyms

influenza, respiratory illness, viral infection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
flu

Used in everyday conversation to refer to a common viral illness that causes fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, congestion, runny nose, headaches, and fatigue.

  • I caught the flu and had to stay home from work for a week
influenza

Used in medical or formal contexts to describe the viral infection that affects the respiratory system, often specified by type (such as Influenza A or B).

  • The doctor confirmed that she has Influenza A, which is more severe than a regular flu
viral infection

Used broadly to describe any infection caused by a virus, including but not limited to the flu.

  • She was suffering from a viral infection, which caused her to feel fatigued and feverish
respiratory illness

Used generally to describe any illness that affects the lungs and breathing, not limited to viral causes.

  • The patient was diagnosed with a respiratory illness and was immediately given medication

Examples of usage

  • The flu season typically peaks in the winter months.
  • She caught the flu and had to stay in bed for a week.
  • Getting a flu shot can help prevent the illness.
  • If you have the flu, it's important to stay home to avoid spreading it to others.
Context #2 | Verb

informal

To be under the weather; to feel unwell or sick.

Synonyms

sick, under the weather, unwell.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
flu

Refer to the influenza virus that causes specific symptoms like fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, and fatigue. Use it when you talk about an illness diagnosed by a healthcare professional.

  • I was diagnosed with the flu last week and had to take some days off work
  • During flu season, many people get vaccinated to prevent it
sick

A general term for any illness, not specific to the flu. Suitable when you want to mention someone not feeling well without specifying the illness.

  • I can't come to the party tonight because I'm feeling sick
  • He called in sick to work this morning
unwell

A more formal way of indicating that someone is sick or not feeling good. It's often used in written or polite contexts.

  • She has been unwell for a few days now
  • Please notify us if your child is feeling unwell
under the weather

An idiomatic expression implying a mild illness or not feeling well. It's often used in a casual conversation.

  • She won't be joining us today; she's feeling a bit under the weather
  • If you're feeling under the weather, it's best to rest

Examples of usage

  • I'm feeling flu-ish today, so I think I'll stay home.
  • She's been flu-ing for the past few days and hasn't been able to go to work.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

History

  • The Spanish flu pandemic of 1918-1919 infected about one third of the world's population and caused an estimated 50 million deaths.
  • Seasonal influenza viruses circulate each year, with variations leading to different strains and outbreaks.
  • The first flu vaccine was developed in the 1940s, marking a significant breakthrough in public health.

Science

  • Flu viruses are constantly changing and evolving, which is why new vaccines are needed every year to protect against them.
  • There are four main types of influenza virus: A, B, C, and D, with types A and B being responsible for the seasonal flu outbreaks.
  • The flu is more contagious in colder months, often spreading in crowded places like schools and stores.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and TV shows often depict characters catching the flu as a comedic device, highlighting the relatable struggle of dealing with illness.
  • Flu season is frequently referenced in pop culture, emphasizing the importance of hygiene and vaccination.
  • Songwriters have even mentioned the flu in lyrics, transforming it into a relatable theme in emotional contexts.

Public Health

  • Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the flu, recommended annually for most people, especially vulnerable groups.
  • Proper hygiene practices, like washing hands regularly and staying home when sick, are crucial in controlling the spread of the flu.
  • Public health campaigns often emphasize the importance of flu awareness and aiming to reduce the burden of illness during peak seasons.

Origin of 'flu'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'flu' is short for 'influenza', which comes from the Italian word 'influenza di freddo', meaning 'influence of the cold'.
  • The word 'influenza' was first used in the late 14th century, referring to the disease believed to be caused by the influence of the stars.
  • Historically, the flu was often mistaken for a cold, but its symptoms are more severe and can lead to complications.

The word 'flu' is a shortened form of 'influenza', which comes from Italian 'influenza' meaning 'influence'. The term was originally used to describe outbreaks of disease attributed to unfavorable astrological influences. The first recorded use of 'flu' to refer to influenza was in the 1830s.

See also: flue, fluent, fluid.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,596, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.