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virion

noun
vi·​ri·​on | \ ˈvÄ«-rÄ“-ˌän How to pronounce virion (audio) , ˈvir-Ä“- How to pronounce virion (audio) \

Definition of virion

: a complete virus particle that consists of an RNA or DNA core with a protein coat sometimes with external envelopes and that is the extracellular infectious form of a virus

Examples of virion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 One piece might be necessary for making essential viral enzymes, for instance, while the other would be needed to make the capsule in which the viral particles (or virions) are packaged and transported to other cells. — Quanta Magazine, "Viruses Can Scatter Their Genes Among Cells and Reassemble," 21 May 2019 This undated electron microscope image made available by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows human immunodeficiency virus particles (virions). — Washington Post, "US officials OK option for men with HIV to father children," 1 June 2017

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'virion.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of virion

1959, in the meaning defined above

History and Etymology for virion

French, from virien viral (from virus virus) + -on -on entry 2

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More Definitions for virion

virion

noun
vi·​ri·​on | \ ˈvÄ«-rÄ“-ˌän How to pronounce virion (audio) , ˈvir-Ä“- How to pronounce virion (audio) \

Medical Definition of virion

: a complete virus particle that consists of an RNA or DNA core with a protein coat sometimes with external envelopes and that is the extracellular infectious form of a virus

More from Merriam-Webster on virion

Rhyming Dictionary: Words that rhyme with virion

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about virion

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