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influenza

in·flu·en·za [ ìn floo énzə ] (plural in·flu·en·zas)


noun 
Definition:
 
1. widespread viral illness: a viral illness producing a high temperature, sore throat, runny nose, headache, dry cough, and muscle pain. The illness is widespread, especially during winter months, and can sometimes be fatal. ( technical )

2. viral illness of animals: a viral disease of domestic animals, usually characterized by fever and respiratory problems

[Mid-18th century. Via Italian< medieval Latin influentia (see influence); referring to the supposed influence of the stars]

in·flu·en·zal adjective
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