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Synonyms for

Flu

Noun / flu: / Another word for flu — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that can cause mild to severe illness and can even lead to death in some cases.

Synonyms & similar words

influenza grippe influenza cold bug virus sickness disease infection fever malady ailment affliction illness distemper seizure attack plague pandemic epidemic

Synonyms by register

Formal

influenza viral infection respiratory illness

Informal

the bug the grippe sick under the weather

Literary

malaise affliction

Antonyms

health wellness vigor robustness soundness well-being

Common collocations

  • seasonal flu
  • flu shot
  • flu season
  • flu symptoms
  • swine flu
  • bird flu
  • flu epidemic
  • flu pandemic

Word family

noun influenza
adjective flu

Usage note

While 'flu' is commonly used for influenza, it can also refer to other types of influenza, such as avian flu or swine flu. 'Influenza' is the more formal term.

Compare "flu" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I got the flu shot to avoid getting sick.
  2. My mom stayed home from work because she had the flu.
  3. The flu spreads easily from person to person.
  4. If you have the flu, you should stay home and rest.
  5. The flu can be very dangerous for young children and elderly people.

Quotes

  • "The flu is serious business." - Louie Anderson
  • "I'm not a hypochondriac, but I'm afraid of the flu." - Sienna Miller
  • "The flu is a great way to lose weight. When I had it, I couldn't eat anything." - Jessica Biel

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