Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

virulence

[vir-yuh-luhns, vir-uh-] / ˈvɪr yə ləns, ˈvɪr ə- /
NOUN
sharpness of temper
Synonyms
STRONG
acerbity acrimony animosity animus annoyance antagonism bitterness choler cynicism displeasure dudgeon embitterment exacerbation exasperation fog fury gall grudge hostility huff hurt indignation ire irritation malice malignity miff offense outrage passion perturbation pique rage rancor rise spite umbrage vehemence vexation virulency wrath
WEAK
bad feeling ill feeling ill will rancorousness resentfulness resentment
Antonyms
STRONG
calm calmness cheer comfort delight glee good will happiness joy kindness love pleasure sweetness sympathy understanding

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

"The study also tells us how albumin works on nullifying critical virulence factors including toxins and other fungal proteins involved in causing tissue damage and in aggressively invading human organs," explained Dr. Ibrahim.

From Science Daily • Mar. 3, 2026

“The Saudis understood that their dispute with the Emiratis had crossed into an anti-Israel posture of increasing virulence, that it was creating serious problems for them in Washington,” Dubowitz said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 2, 2026

Mycoviral infections are multifaceted; they can reduce or increase virulence or remain hidden without obvious symptoms.

From Science Daily • Jun. 19, 2024

"So, we expected the virus might have a negative effect on Bd virulence and were stunned to find the opposite effect."

From Salon • Apr. 6, 2024

Even the Black Death, a symbol of virulence, was not as deadly as these epidemics are claimed to be.

From "1491" by Charles C. Mann