subvariant

American  

[suhb-vair-ee-uhnt] / ˈsʌbˌvɛər i ənt /

noun

1. Microbiology, Pathology. a genetically distinct form of a virus, bacteria, or other microorganism, which arises when a variant of the original strain mutates.

2. in a classification or hierarchy, a distinct, often more specialized type of something that is itself one of a subset of a broader or higher category; subtype.

   Each fighter plane in the A-series was eventually issued in the subvariants of fighter-bomber and bomber-destroyer.

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Etymology

Origin of subvariant

First recorded in 1900–05; sub- ( def. ) + variant ( def. )

Example Sentences

In lab studies, the Cicada subvariant efficiently evades immunity from a prior vaccination or infection, according to a report published by the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

In November, BA.3.2 was identified in a wastewater sample in Rhode Island; and among patients, the first detections of the new subvariant were found in three different states in December and early January.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

However, the intended effectiveness of the flu vaccine against symptomatic disease caused by the new subvariant remains uncertain, the World Health Organization said.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 23, 2025

The dreaded norovirus — the “vomiting bug” that often causes stomach flu symptoms — is climbing again in California, and doctors warn that a new subvariant could make even more people sick this season.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 13, 2025

The timing of this new flu subvariant — called H3N2 subclade K — is particularly problematic.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 25, 2025