HIV

noun

ˌāch-ˌī-ˈvē 

: either of two retroviruses that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS

called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus

compare hiv-1, hiv-2

Examples of HIV in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

On Call, out today, chronicles Fauci’s life and upbringing, as well as his role in researching HIV and bringing AIDS into sympathetic public view, his leadership in navigating the Ebola, SARS, West Nile, and anthrax crises, and his work during Covid. —Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 18 June 2024

That is nothing like what the [HIV] activists were doing. —Andrea Kane, CNN, 18 June 2024

Those taking medications to treat or prevent HIV infection will also be deferred, but LGBTQ+ advocacy groups say the new FDA rules are an important step in the right direction. —Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 18 June 2024

Fauci appears as pessimistic as he’s ever been on the prospect for an HIV vaccine. —Jason Mast, STAT, 16 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1986, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing HIV

• anti-HIV

Kids Definition

HIV

noun

ˌāch-ˌī-ˈvē 

: any of a group of viruses that infect and destroy helper T cells causing the marked reduction in their numbers that is diagnostic of AIDS

Medical Definition

HIV

noun

ˌā-ˌchī-ˈvē 

1

: either of two retroviruses (species Human immunodeficiency virus 1 and 2 of the genus Lentivirus) that infect and destroy helper T cells of the immune system and that when left untreated cause AIDS

Note: HIV retroviruses are transmitted through contact with blood, semen, rectal and vaginal fluids, or breast milk and typically cause flu-like symptoms during the acute phase of infection, but often cause few or no symptoms during the chronic phase of infection when treated with antiretroviral drugs.

called also AIDS virus, human immunodeficiency virus

compare hiv-1, hiv-2

2

: the infection or disease caused by HIV