Virulent
hardNegative toneVEER-yuh-lunt
adjective
Definition
extremely harmful, bitterly hostile, or severely infectious
Memory hook
VIRULENT: think VIRUS + violent — a violent virus, spreading fast and full of poison.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The new strain proved far more virulent than earlier ones, spreading within hours.”
“He launched a virulent attack on his rival's character during the debate.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The new strain proved far more ______ than earlier ones, spreading within hours.”
Show answer
virulent
Categories
GRE Tip
Virulent is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "venomous" or "malignant" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "benign".
Related GRE Words
belligerent
Hostile and aggressive; engaged in war or conflict
inimical
Tending to obstruct or harm; unfriendly; hostile
vitriolic
Filled with bitter criticism or malice
antagonistic
Showing or feeling active opposition or hostility toward someone or something
capitulate
To surrender or give in, often after resisting
conciliatory
intended to placate or win goodwill; appeasing
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