biological warfare

A hypothetical military technique that could be used by either nations or non-governmental bodies—e.g., the use of pathogens—viruses, bacteria, other disease-causing biological agents, or the toxins produced by them as biological weapons

Segen's Medical Dictionary. © 2012 Farlex, Inc. All rights reserved.

biological warfare

,

BW

Warfare in which disease-producing microorganisms, toxins, or organic biocides, e.g., Bacillus anththracis or Yersinia pestis are deliberately used to destroy, injure, or immobilize livestock, vegetation, or human life, as by causing diseases, e.g., anthrax or plague.

Synonym: biowar See: chemical warfare

Medical Dictionary, © 2009 Farlex and Partners

biological warfare

The use of micro-organisms capable of spreading and causing epidemics of disease, for military purposes.

Collins Dictionary of Medicine © Robert M. Youngson 2004, 2005

biological warfare

the use of living organisms, particularly microorganisms, or their products, to induce illness or death in a population.

Collins Dictionary of Biology, 3rd ed. © W. G. Hale, V. A. Saunders, J. P. Margham 2005