HIV

noun

ˌāch-ˌī-ˈvē 

: either of two retroviruses that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS

called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus

compare hiv-1, hiv-2

Examples of HIV in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In 1990: President George H.W. Bush signed the Ryan White CARE Act, funding services for low-income people with HIV and AIDS. —The Arizona Republic, 17 Aug. 2024

Fighting for global funding for HIV and AIDS, advocating for human rights and his work to save Medicaid are all highlighted on his website. —Jolan Kruse, Journal Sentinel, 16 Aug. 2024

Many were young men with genital lesions, and many also had HIV. —Byjon Cohen, science.org, 16 Aug. 2024

This condition typically occurs due to a weakened immune system as a result of HIV or diabetes. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 15 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1986, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing HIV

• anti-HIV

Kids Definition

HIV

noun

ˌāch-ˌī-ˈvē 

: any of a group of viruses that infect and destroy helper T cells causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS

Medical Definition

HIV

noun

ˌā-ˌchī-ˈvē 

1

: either of two retroviruses (species Human immunodeficiency virus 1 and 2 of the genus Lentivirus) that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system and that when left untreated cause AIDS

Note: HIV retroviruses are transmitted through contact with blood, semen, rectal and vaginal fluids, or breast milk and typically cause flu-like symptoms during the acute phase of infection, but often cause few or no symptoms during the chronic phase of infection when treated with antiretroviral drugs.

called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus

compare hiv-1, hiv-2

2

: the infection or disease caused by HIV