antiviral

American  

[an-tahy-vahy-ruhl, an-tee-] / ˌæn taɪˈvaɪ rəl, ˌæn ti- /

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.

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noun

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

antiviral British  

/ ˌæntɪˈvaɪrəl /

adjective

1. inhibiting the growth of viruses

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noun

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

Etymology

Origin of antiviral

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

Example Sentences

They are also working on updated versions of the vaccine designed to further reduce the influence of prior seasonal flu immunity and to enhance antiviral responses.

From Science Daily

It also announced plans to buy Cidara Therapeutics, which is working on antiviral treatments, including a flu prophylactic in Phase 3, for $9.2 billion.

From MarketWatch

These cells activate a wide range of antiviral defenses designed to limit the virus and stop it from spreading.

From Science Daily

If you’ve had a recent viral infection, some evidence suggests the antiviral interferon response stays active, making it easier for your body to mount a quick defense against the next virus, Foxman said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Officials are urging the public, especially those at higher risk for severe flu complications such as the very young and older populations, to get vaccinated or take immediate antiviral treatment, such as Tamifu.

From Los Angeles Times