viral

adjective

vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl How to pronounce viral (audio)
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 adverb

Examples of viral in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Several viral videos have captured audiences of the blockbuster video game adaptation going wild, throwing food and drink, and trashing auditoriums. Pamela McClintock, HollywoodReporter, 10 Apr. 2025 In September 2024, the company restocked the viral totes that notably resemble L.L. Bean’s tote bags. Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 10 Apr. 2025 Now, Arnold is the one who is dealing with Patrick’s viral fame instead. Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 10 Apr. 2025 Beyond the viral fame, Tillman is excited that the spotlight has brought attention to the Harold Washington Cultural Center and her daughter’s artistic endeavors. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for viral

Word History

Etymology

vir(us) + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1937, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of viral was in 1937

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Viral.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/viral. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

viral

adjective
vi·​ral ˈvī-rəl How to pronounce viral (audio)
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 How to pronounce viral (audio)
: of, relating to, or caused by a virus
viral infections
virally adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on viral

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