Definition

A type of virus that can infect animals and humans, known for its single-stranded RNA and a lipid envelope with spike-like projections. It includes viruses that cause diseases like SARS and COVID-19.

Example

The coronavirus outbreak led to global health measures and changes in daily life.

Conversation

Have you heard about the latest updates on the coronavirus?

Yeah, it's been all over the news lately.

It's crazy how it keeps changing, isn't it?

Definitely! I just hope things get better soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Coronavirus → It is formed from "corona" (from Latin, meaning crown or halo) and "virus" (from Latin, meaning poison or slimy liquid). The word "coronavirus" refers to a virus that has a crown-like appearance when viewed under a microscope.

Memory Tip

Picture a virus that looks like it has a 'crown' ('corona') on it, which helps you remember that 'coronavirus' refers to this crown-like virus.

Visually Confused Words