Virulent

Virulent is a term used to describe something that is extremely harmful or toxic, particularly in the context of disease, where it denotes a pathogen's ability to cause severe illness or death. The word can also refer to attitudes, opinions, or sentiments that are characterized by aggressive hostility or extreme negativity. Its etymology derives from the Latin 'virulentus', meaning poisonous or venomous, emphasizing the danger and intensity associated with the term.

Virulent meaning with examples

• The scientist warned that the virulent strain of the virus circulating in the community posed a significant risk to public health, as it was not only highly contagious but also caused severe symptoms in the infected individuals, overwhelming local hospitals and healthcare systems.
• After being exposed to a virulent toxin at the lab, several researchers experienced severe allergic reactions, necessitating immediate medical attention and a thorough investigation into the safety protocols currently in place regarding hazardous materials.
• The article detailed the virulent disagreements that took place during the political debate, with each candidate resorting to personal attacks rather than discussing policy issues, which only fueled public outrage and further polarized the electorate.
• The town's response to the virulent protest was swift and decisive, deploying additional law enforcement and medics to manage the increasingly hostile situation, which highlighted the growing tensions surrounding the proposed legislation affecting local businesses.
• The virulent social media campaign against the celebrity not only damaged their reputation but also sparked discussions about freedom of speech and the responsibilities that come with it, raising questions about how to balance criticism and harassment in digital spaces.