orthomyxovirus

noun

or·​tho·​myxo·​vi·​rus ˌȯr-thō-ˈmik-sə-ˌvī-rəs 

: any of a family (Orthomyxoviridae) of single-stranded RNA viruses that have a spherical or filamentous virion with numerous surface projections of glycoprotein and include the causative agents of influenza

Word History

Etymology

New Latin, from orth- + myxovirus

First Known Use

1971, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

orthomyxovirus

noun

or·​tho·​myxo·​vi·​rus ˌȯr-thō-ˈmik-sə-ˌvī-rəs 

: any of the family Orthomyxoviridae of single-stranded RNA viruses that include the causative agents of influenza in vertebrates see influenza virus