HIV-positive

UK: ˌeɪtʃ aɪ ˈviː ˈpɒzətɪv | US: ˌeɪtʃ aɪ ˈviː ˈpɑːzətɪv

Definition

  1. adj. testing positive for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

  2. adj. (figuratively) associated with or affected by HIV/AIDS

Structure
HIV <Human Immunodeficiency Virus>positive <indicating presence>
Etymology

The term combines "HIV," an acronym for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (identified in the 1980s), with "positive," from Latin positivus (meaning "settled by agreement" or "affirmative"). In medical contexts, "positive" denotes the presence of a condition. The compound emerged in the late 20th century alongside HIV testing, reflecting a clinical yet stigmatized status. The hyphen underscores the unified semantic unit.

Examples

  1. After the test, he was diagnosed as HIV-positive.

  2. HIV-positive individuals can lead healthy lives with proper treatment.

  3. The clinic offers free counseling for HIV-positive patients.

  4. She advocates for the rights of HIV-positive mothers.

  5. Misconceptions about HIV-positive people persist in some communities.