viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl 

1

: of, relating to, or caused by a virus

a viral infection

2

: quickly and widely spread or popularized especially by means of social media

a viral video

virally

ˈvī-rə-lē 

adverb

Examples of viral in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Medical experts say antibiotics can sometimes be helpful if a viral infection causes a secondary bacterial infection, such as an ear infection or pneumonia. —Brenda Goodman and Neha Mukherjee, CNN, 6 Mar. 2025

In a new viral video from the pair’s current press tour, Pratt and Brown are seen together at a Thursday, Feb. 27 press conference at the Four Seasons in Madrid. —Charna Flam, People.com, 6 Mar. 2025

However, the game was almost a footnote compared to the viral altercation between Kevin Durant and Suns head coach Mike Budenholzer. —Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 6 Mar. 2025

The Cheeto's resemblance to Charizard, one of Pokémon's most beloved creatures, turned it into an instant viral sensation. —Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

vir(us) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing viral

• viral load
• viral marketing

Rhymes for viral

• chiral
• spiral
• adenoviral
• antiretroviral
• antiviral
• retroviral

Kids Definition

viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl 

1

: of, relating to, or caused by a virus

a viral infection

2

: quickly and widely spread or popularized especially by person-to-person electronic communication

a viral video

Medical Definition

viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl 

: of, relating to, or caused by a virus

viral infections

virally

-rə-lē 

adverb