Viricidal refers to the ability to kill viruses or prevent their replication. Some synonyms for viricidal include antiviral, antivirus, virucidal, virustatic, and antiviral agent. Antivirals are substances or medications that target a specific virus, blocking its replication or growth. Virucidal agents can kill the virus on surfaces or in the air by disrupting their structure. Virustatic agents prevent the virus from multiplying, usually by inhibiting viral DNA synthesis. These terms are commonly used in the medical field, especially in the context of treating viral infections such as HIV, influenza, and COVID-19. Regardless of the synonym used, the essential goal remains the same, which is to stop the spread of the virus.