antiviral

[ an-tahy-vahy-ruhl, an-tee- ]

adjective

1. Medicine/Medical, Pharmacology.
   1. (of a drug or therapy) developed to effectively treat an infection caused by a virus.
   2. of or relating to a substance used to prevent or treat a viral infection:

      Raw garlic has been found to have antiviral properties.

2. Computers. (of software) programmed to detect, neutralize, and remove computer viruses.

noun

1. Medicine/Medical, Pharmacology. an antiviral drug, other substance, or therapy.

antiviral

/ ˌæntɪˈvaɪrəl /

adjective

1. inhibiting the growth of viruses

noun

1. any antiviral drug: used to treat diseases caused by viruses, such as herpes infections and AIDS

Word History and Origins

Origin of antiviral¹

First recorded in 1925–30; anti- ( def ) + viral ( def )

Example Sentences

There is no known effective antiviral drug, no vaccine, and no preventative medication.

From The Daily Beast

A low count spelled serious trouble, whereas high and stable numbers were seen in those with a good response to antiviral drugs.

From The Daily Beast

It proved resistant to every one of the antibiotics and antiviral agents in the Lancet's stockroom.

From Project Gutenberg