The causative agent of influenza; (in later use) specifically any orthomyxovirus of the genera Influenzavirus A, Influenzavirus B, and Influenzavirus C.
Origin
Late 19th century. From influenza + virus.
Definition of influenza virus in US English:
influenza virus
nounˌɪnflʊˈɛnzə ˈvʌɪrəs
The causative agent of influenza; (in later use) specifically any orthomyxovirus of the genera Influenzavirus A, Influenzavirus B, and Influenzavirus C.