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Virulently Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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virulently

[หˆvษชr.jสŠ.lษ™nt.li ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

negative manner

Virulently describes an aggressive and hostile manner, often associated with extreme levels of intensity. It is commonly used in discussions about diseases or toxic substances, where it denotes a high degree of virulence, or harmfulness. Additionally, it can refer to actions or words that display a fierce negativity or hostility towards someone or something. The term emphasizes the potency and severity of the subject it describes.

Synonyms

aggressively, bitterly, hostilely.

Examples of usage

  • The virus spread virulently across the population.
  • He virulently opposed the new policy changes.
  • The debate became virulently charged with emotion.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'virulently'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'virulently' originates from the Latin term 'virulentus,' which means 'poisonous' or 'full of venom.' This term itself comes from 'virus,' which refers to a poison or slimy liquid, and has been used historically to describe toxic substances. The transition into English saw the term used both in scientific contexts, particularly in relation to infectious diseases, and in figurative language describing severe criticism or hostility. Over time, its usage expanded beyond the scientific realm to convey strong emotional responses and attitudes in various social and political discussions. As our understanding of diseases and harmful behaviors evolved, so did the application of the word, allowing it to retain its potency in contemporary language.

Word Frequency Rank

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.