polyhedrosis

noun

poly·he·dro·sis ˌpä-lē-hē-ˈdrō-səs

plural polyhedroses ˌpä-lē-hē-ˈdrō-ˌsēz

: any of numerous diseases that affect specific insect larvae or decapod crustaceans, that are caused by double-stranded DNA viruses of a family (Baculoviridae) or by reoviruses of a genus (Cypovirus), and that are characterized by dissolution of tissues and accumulation of virus-containing granules in the resultant fluid

Word History

Etymology

polyhedr(al) + -osis; so named from the characteristic polyhedral capsid that encloses the virus

First Known Use

1947, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of polyhedrosis was in 1947

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Polyhedrosis.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polyhedrosis. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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