1. plural of virulence; the degrees of severity or harmfulness of diseases, poisons, or other harmful agents
Usage: medical; scientific
2. plural of virulence; instances of bitter hostility or malice in speech or behavior
Usage: formal

Examples

• The researchers compared the virulences of different bacterial strains.
• Scientists study the virulences of various toxins to develop better treatments.
• The virulences of his attacks on his opponents shocked the audience.
• Medical journals document the virulences of emerging pathogens.
• The debate was marked by the virulences of both sides’ rhetoric.