human papillomavirus

noun

: any of numerous papillomaviruses (as of the genera Alphapapillomavirus, Betapapillomavirus, and Gammapapillomavirus) that cause various human papillomas (such as genital warts and plantar warts) and include some associated with the production of human cancer
abbreviation HPV

Examples of human papillomavirus in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Warts are small, often painless bumps or growths caused by viruses, often the human papillomavirus (HPV).6 Actinic hyperkeratosis: This is a patch of hardened, scaly skin caused by sun exposure. Mark Gurarie, Health, 5 July 2024 For example, the HPV vaccine against human papillomavirus, given to children starting at 9, is extremely effective at preventing cervical cancer, some head and neck and other cancers in men. Karen Weintraub, USA TODAY, 4 June 2024 Warts—common, raised bumps that are rarely painful or irritating—are skin infections caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). Sarah Bradley, Health, 19 June 2024 The human papillomavirus vaccine provides powerful protection against the leading cause of cervical cancer and against a strong risk factor for anal cancer. Linda Villarosa, New York Times, 13 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for human papillomavirus 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'human papillomavirus.' 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

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of human papillomavirus was in 1952

Dictionary Entries Near human papillomavirus

Cite this Entry

“Human papillomavirus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/human%20papillomavirus. Accessed 15 Jul. 2024.

Medical Definition

human papillomavirus

noun
: a double-stranded DNA virus of the genus Papillomavirus (species Human papillomavirus) that has numerous genotypes causing various human warts (as the common warts of the extremities, plantar warts, and genital warts) including some associated with the production of cervical cancer

called also HPV

More from Merriam-Webster on human papillomavirus

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