Medical Definition of Human immunodeficiency virus. Human immunodeficiency virus: HIV, the cause of AIDS. HIV has also previously been called the human lymphotropic virus type III, the lymphadenopathy-associated virus and the lymphadenopathy virus. No matter what name is applied, it is a retrovirus. (A retrovirus has an RNA genome and a reverse transcriptase enzyme.
Definition of custody for English Language Learners. 1  law : the legal right to take care of a child (such as a child whose parents are divorced) : 2  the state of being kept in a prison or jail. : 3  the act of protecting or taking care of something.
Quick Answer. Temporary legal custody means a court order granting parenting rights over a minor to a friend, relative or custodial parent for a certain period of time until permanent custody can be determined, states Avvo. These rights include the authority to make decisions involving the child's health care, education and welfare.