Meaning & Definition of word "Influenza"
Influenza
/ˌɪn.fluˈɛn.zə/
noun:
- 1. A contagious viral infection characterized by fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms.
- Example: The influenza outbreak this winter has led to a surge in hospital visits.
- 2. A specific strain or subtype of the influenza virus, such as H1N1 or seasonal flu.
- Example: Vaccination against influenza is recommended every year to protect against the most common strains.
- 3. A common term for the flu, which is caused by influenza viruses.
- Example: She caught influenza while traveling and had to take several days off work.
Etymology
●From the Italian 'influenza' meaning 'influence', referring to the belief that the stars influenced the onset of the disease.
Common Phrases and Expressions
flu season:
The period of time, typically during winter, when influenza infections are most prevalent.
catch the flu:
To become infected with the influenza virus.
flu shot:
A vaccination that helps protect against influenza.
Related Words
virus:
A microscopic agent that infects living organisms.
vaccination:
A method of stimulating the immune response to prevent disease.
pandemic:
An outbreak of a disease occurring over a wide geographic area affecting a large proportion of the population.
Slang Meanings of influenza
Meaning: The flu
● Example Sentence: I caught the flu and had to stay home from work.
Meaning: Sick as a dog
● Example Sentence: When he had influenza, he felt sick as a dog for days.