Virulently: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word comes from the Latin word 'virulentus,' meaning 'poisonous' or 'full of venom.'
• Its original usage in English dates back to the mid-19th century, emphasizing toxic substances.
• Before its modern definition, it was often used in the context of biological entities causing diseases.

Science

• In biology, 'virulent' describes a pathogen's ability to infect and cause disease in a host.
• Certain strains of bacteria and viruses are classified as virulent based on their aggressive nature.
• The virulence of a microorganism can be influenced by its genetic makeup and environmental factors.

Psychology

• The term can describe an attitude or behavior that is aggressively hostile or bitter.
• In societal contexts, virulent speech or rhetoric can promote divisiveness and conflict.
• Studies show that exposure to virulent ideas can heighten stress and anxiety among communities.

Literature

• Writers often use the term to evoke a sense of danger or hostility in characters or environments.
• The portrayal of virulent feelings in literature can symbolize broader social issues or conflicts.
• In dystopian novels, virulent attitudes may represent the collapse of civilized discourse.

Health

• Virulent diseases pose significant public health threats, often requiring urgent intervention.
• Vaccination can reduce the virulence of certain infectious diseases by building immunity.
• Public health campaigns aim to address virulently spreading misinformation about diseases.

Ranking #35,805, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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• 35805 virulently
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