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

Example Sentences

That genetic twist would likely diminish H5N1’s virulence, experts predict, but no one can say how much less deadly it might become.

From Salon

Mycoviral infections are multifaceted; they can reduce or increase virulence or remain hidden without obvious symptoms.

From Science Daily

These virulence factors are used to differentiate one species of Streptococcus from another and are one way to distinguish samples through phenotypic analysis.

From Science Daily

“All the information we have now … is that there’s no difference in virulence,” said Dr. John Swartzberg, clinical professor emeritus of infectious diseases and vaccinology at UC Berkeley’s School of Public Health.

From Seattle Times

Following this mineral assessment, the scientists explored the impact of calcium on several aspects related to the virulence of the pathogen, including its growth rate, ability to form biofilms and motility.

From Science Daily