Synonyms for

Influenza

Verb / ˌɪnflu:ˈenzʌ / Another word for influenza — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory passages causing fever, severe aching, and catarrh, and often occurring in epidemics.

Synonyms & similar words

grippe flu flu virus cold bug illness sickness disease infection ailment malady plague pandemic epidemic outbreak contagion transmission spread contamination

Synonyms by register

Formal

flu grippe respiratory illness

Informal

the flu bug sick

Literary

pestilence affliction

Antonyms

health wellness vigor robustness soundness vitality

Common collocations

  • seasonal influenza
  • avian influenza
  • swine influenza
  • influenza virus
  • influenza pandemic
  • influenza vaccine
  • influenza outbreak

Word family

noun influenza
adjective influenza

Usage note

Influenza is the formal medical term for the flu. While 'flu' is commonly used, 'influenza' is preferred in medical and scientific contexts. It is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses.

Example sentences

  1. I got a flu shot to protect me from influenza.
  2. Influenza can be very dangerous for young children and elderly people.
  3. Many people wear masks during flu season to avoid catching influenza.
  4. The outbreak of influenza caused schools to close and people to stay home.
  5. The hospital was overwhelmed with patients suffering from influenza.

Quotes

  • "Influenza is not a 'bad cold'. It is a serious disease." - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • "Influenza is a serious illness that can lead to hospitalization and even death." - American Lung Association
  • "Influenza is a serious public health threat that can lead to severe illness and death." - World Health Organization

Try these popular words

the and that for you with was this are have not from

Practice

Play the Word Synonyms game · Choose level (start near 1)

Worksheets

Grade 4 · Grade 5 · Grade 6

Topics

Guides

Explore more words