: 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 Five artists have been shortlisted to design London’s first permanent HIV/AIDS memorial, which is set to be unveiled in 2026. Ella Feldman, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 Mar. 2024 God’s Love We Deliver prepares and delivers meals to people with HIV/AIDS, cancer, and other serious illnesses. Hannah Dylan Pasternak, SELF, 13 Mar. 2024 Kruger’s work built on his own personal experiences living with HIV and experiencing homelessness, according to LinkedIn. Danny Freeman, CNN, 13 Mar. 2024 Unproven Uses Some people believe osha root can help treat medical conditions, including the following: Sore throats Digestive issues such as indigestion Skin wounds Cough Viral infections such as herpes and HIV These health claims have not been proven in studies. Barbie Cervoni, Verywell Health, 11 Mar. 2024 During her tenure, she’s worked to secure funding to combat HIV and AIDS and to bring funding for community groups to her district. John Woolfolk, The Mercury News, 10 Mar. 2024 Children who have had organ transplants, those who have HIV or kids who are being treated for cancer or autoimmune diseases could be among those who cannot get a vaccine. Kristen Jordan Shamus, Detroit Free Press, 10 Mar. 2024 Recent data from the CDC paints a concerning picture: While overall HIV infections among Black women have remained stable, the disparity in new HIV infections persists and, in some cases, worsens. Larada Lee, Essence, 9 Mar. 2024 Those most at risk include those who are unvaccinated, those who don't know their immunization status, pregnant women and those who have a weakened immune system because of illness and diseases like HIV, malnutrition and/or medications. Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press, 3 Mar. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'HIV.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1986, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of HIV was in 1986

Dictionary Entries Near HIV

Cite this Entry

“HIV.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/HIV. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

: 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

: any of several retroviruses and especially HIV-1 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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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