virulent
US /ˈvɪr.jə.lənt/
UK /ˈvɪr.jə.lənt/
1.
extremely severe or harmful in its effects
:
•
The disease was caused by a highly virulent strain of bacteria.
•
The new variant of the virus is more virulent than the original.
2.
bitterly hostile
:
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The debate was marked by virulent attacks from both sides.
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He launched a virulent critique of the government's policies.