Why is a viruses refered to as a particles rather than cells

Viruses are not alive. Although they sort of “hack” a host’s cells and reproduce, they do not breathe or move on their own. A virus will sit on a counter forever if it’s untouched. Viruses are spread by physical contact, not because they can move around on their own.
Although viruses can attack and hack, and use your cells to reproduce, they are programmed to do so.
Cells are very much alive, while viruses are not.