Antivirus is a term that we often hear in the world of technology. It is a software program that is designed to detect, prevent, and remove malicious software from a computer system. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of antivirus, its origin, associations, synonyms, antonyms, and the same root words.
Definitions
Antivirus is a software program that is designed to protect computer systems from malicious software such as viruses, Trojans, worms, and other types of malware. It works by scanning the computer system for any suspicious activity and removing any threats that are detected.
Origin
The first antivirus software was developed in the 1980s by a company called Symantec. The software was called Norton Antivirus and was designed to detect and remove viruses from computer systems. Since then, many other companies have developed antivirus software, and the technology has evolved to become more sophisticated and effective.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, antivirus is defined as “a software program designed to prevent, detect, and remove malicious software from a computer system.”
The Oxford English Dictionary defines antivirus as “a program designed to detect and remove computer viruses from a computer system.”
Associations
Antivirus is often associated with cybersecurity and computer protection. It is also associated with companies that develop and sell antivirus software, such as Norton, McAfee, and Avast.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of antivirus include anti-malware, anti-virus software, and virus protection software.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of antivirus, but some related terms include malware, viruses, and other types of malicious software.
The same root words
The word antivirus is derived from the Latin word “anti” meaning against, and “virus” meaning poison or harmful substance.
Example Sentences
- “I always make sure to have antivirus software installed on my computer to protect it from viruses and malware.”
- “The company’s IT department is responsible for ensuring that all computers have up-to-date antivirus software.”
- “If you suspect that your computer has been infected with a virus, you should run a full scan with your antivirus software.”