- Describes a piece of online content (like a video, image, meme, tweet, article) that spreads extremely rapidly and widely across the internet through user sharing.
Explanation
Origin
- Metaphorical use adopted from virology, where a biological virus spreads quickly from host to host.
- In the early 2000s, the term was applied to internet content that exhibited similar rapid, person-to-person (or user-to-user) transmission via email, forums, and later, social media.
- It signifies achieving massive, organic reach online in a short period.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Blew up / Took off
- It was everywhere
- Got mad views/shares
- Caught fire (metaphorical)
More Formal:
- Achieved widespread online dissemination
- Experienced exponential growth in online sharing
- Attained viral reach
Situational Appropriateness
- Informal to semi-formal.
- Widely understood and used in contexts related to the internet, social media, marketing, and popular culture.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Ensure understanding that it refers to rapid online spreading of *content*, not a literal biological virus or illness.
Examples
- That hilarious cat video went viral overnight.
- Her blog post about the incident went viral and sparked a huge debate.
- They're hoping their new ad campaign will go viral.
Dialogue
Kenji: You won't believe what happened with that short film I made for class.
Maria: What? Did you get a good grade?
Kenji: Better! I uploaded it to YouTube, and somehow, it just went viral! It's got over 2 million views already!
Maria: Shut up! That's incredible, Kenji! Congratulations!
Social Media Examples
- Tweet: My tweet about accidentally ordering 100 rubber ducks went viral and now my mentions are chaos. What have I done?! 😂🦆 #viral #internetfame
- LinkedIn Post: Our recent marketing campaign video unexpectedly went viral on TikTok, driving significant brand awareness. Analyzing the factors behind its success. #marketing #virality
- News Headline: Local Dog Walker Goes Viral After Rescuing Cat from Tree
Response Patterns
- Surprise/Disbelief: Wow, really? / No way!
- Congratulations (if positive): That's amazing! / Awesome!
- Curiosity: What was it about? / How many views/shares did it get? / Can you send me the link?
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After hearing something went viral:
- Ask to see the content: Show me! / Send the link.
- Inquire about metrics: How many views/likes?
- Discuss the impact: Did anything happen as a result? / Was the attention good or bad?
Conversation Starter
- Yes. Can be used to initiate discussion about trending online content. Did you see that [type of content] that went viral recently?
Intonation
- Strong emphasis on VIRAL: It went VIRAL!
- The tone is usually one of excitement, surprise, awe, or sometimes neutrality when reporting.
Generation Differences
- Very common term, especially among generations active on social media (Millennials, Gen Z). Generally understood by most internet users (including Gen X and some Boomers).
Regional Variations
- Universal term within global internet culture.