poxvirus

[ poks-vahy-ruhs ]

noun

, plural pox·vi·rus·es.

1. any of a group of large, brick-shaped DNA-containing viruses that infect humans and other animals, including the viruses of smallpox and various other poxes.

Word History and Origins

Origin of poxvirus¹

First recorded in 1940–45; pox + virus

Example Sentences

As a poxvirus, its symptoms are similar to those of smallpox, and include fever, muscle aches, and headache.

From Time