human papillomavirus

noun

: any of numerous papillomaviruses (as of the genera Alphapapillomavirus, Betapapillomavirus, and Gammapapillomavirus) that cause various human papillomas (such as genital warts and plantar warts) and include some associated with the production of human cancer
abbreviation HPV

Examples of human papillomavirus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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However, Warren then questioned Kennedy about his financial ties to a lawsuit against Merck over its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine. Hannah Parry, Newsweek, 29 Jan. 2025 The suits allege that the company failed to properly warn consumers about side effects associated with its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which reduces the risk of cervical cancer. Aria Bendix, NBC News, 28 Jan. 2025 They're caused by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.13 13. Christopher Bergland, Verywell Health, 17 Jan. 2025 Jemal said this is likely due to a lack of screening and vaccination against human papillomavirus (HPV), the primary cause of cervical cancer. Adrianna Rodriguez, USA TODAY, 16 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for human papillomavirus 

Word History

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of human papillomavirus was in 1952

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Cite this Entry

“Human papillomavirus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/human%20papillomavirus. Accessed 11 Feb. 2025.

Medical Definition

human papillomavirus

noun
: a double-stranded DNA virus of the genus Papillomavirus (species Human papillomavirus) that has numerous genotypes causing various human warts (as the common warts of the extremities, plantar warts, and genital warts) including some associated with the production of cervical cancer

called also HPV

More from Merriam-Webster on human papillomavirus

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