flu
UK: fluː | US: fluː
n. (informal) short for influenza, a contagious viral illness characterized by fever, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms.
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The word flu is a clipped form of influenza, which entered English in the 18th century from Italian (influenza). The Italian term originally meant "influence," reflecting the medieval belief that epidemics were caused by astrological or atmospheric influences. Over time, influenza became specifically associated with the viral illness, and flu emerged as a colloquial abbreviation in the early 20th century.
She missed work for a week because of the flu.
The flu vaccine is recommended annually for high-risk groups.
He caught the flu after traveling during flu season.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, and muscle aches.
Schools reported high absenteeism due to a flu outbreak.