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Definition of orthomyxovirus

orthomyxovirus

/ˌɔːrθoʊˌmɪksoʊˈvaɪrəs/
or · tho · myx · o · vi · rus
Plural:orthomyxoviruses
•
Adjective:orthomyxoviral
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orthomyxovirus Lexical Profile

orthomyxovirus Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Any of a family (Orthomyxoviridae) of single-stranded RNA viruses that have a segmented genome and primarily infect the respiratory tract, most notably including the causative agents of influenza in vertebrates.

Example

"The researchers analyzed the genetic sequence of the orthomyxovirus to better understand how the seasonal flu mutates so rapidly."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for orthomyxovirus

• Rhymes for orthomyxovirus

• Nearby Words

orontium
oropendola
ortanique
orthomyxovirus
orthonyx
orthrosanthus
ortolan

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the mid-20th century from the Greek 'orthos' (straight, true), 'myxa' (mucus, referring to the virus's affinity for respiratory mucosal surfaces), and the Latin 'virus' (poison). It was named to classify true influenza viruses and distinguish them from paramyxoviruses.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Orthomyxovirus. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 12, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/orthomyxovirus
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