Definition

1. Noun:
   • Any of a group of RNA viruses: A "myxovirus" is any virus belonging to a former taxonomic group of RNA viruses, notable for their ability to attach to mucoproteins on the surface of host cells. This group historically included significant pathogens affecting humans and animals.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The influenza virus was originally classified as a myxovirus.
  • Research into myxoviruses has contributed greatly to our understanding of viral replication.

Advanced Usage

• Scientific Classification: While "myxovirus" was a standard term in mid-20th-century virology, modern taxonomy has reclassified these viruses into more specific families (like Orthomyxoviridae and Paramyxoviridae). The term is now primarily used in historical or general educational contexts.
  • The textbook explained the old myxovirus classification before detailing the current families.

Variants and Related Words

• Orthomyxovirus (n): A subgroup of myxoviruses that includes the influenza viruses, characterized by a segmented RNA genome.
• Paramyxovirus (n): A subgroup of myxoviruses that includes viruses causing mumps, measles, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection.

Synonyms

• RNA virus (general term): A virus whose genetic material is ribonucleic acid.

Notes on Meaning

• The core meaning of "myxovirus" is defined by its biological properties (RNA virus with an affinity for mucins). It does not have different everyday meanings, as it is a specialized scientific term. Its primary use is in the fields of virology, medicine, and biology.

Noun

1. any of a group of RNA viruses including those that cause influenza and mumps