# retrovirus

> English word · Noun · frequency rank #63,198

## Definitions
1. Any of a group of viruses which insert a copy of their RNA genome into the DNA of a host cell, thus changing the genome of that cell.
2. A computer virus that seeks to attack antivirus programs in an attempt to avoid detection.

## Etymology
From retro- + virus, from its reverse direction of replication.

## Source
Compiled from Wiktionary via kaikki.org (CC BY-SA). Data vintage: 2026-05-06.
Canonical page: https://plainspell.com/en/word/retrovirus