virulence

[ vir-yuh-luhns, vir-uh- ]

noun

1. quality of being virulent.
2. Bacteriology.
   1. the relative ability of a microorganism to cause disease; degree of pathogenicity.
   2. the capability of a microorganism to cause disease.
3. venomous hostility.
4. intense sharpness of temper.

virulence

/ ˈvɪrʊləns /

noun

1. the quality of being virulent
2. the capacity of a microorganism for causing disease

virulence

1. The capacity of a pathogen , such as a microorganism or toxin , to produce disease.

Notes

“Virulent” substances or organisms are extremely pathogenic or toxic.

Word History and Origins

Origin of virulence¹

1655–65; < Late Latin vīrulentia stench; virulent, -ence