Definition

A type of virus that is responsible for causing respiratory infections, including the common cold.

Example

The doctor said that my cold was caused by a rhinovirus.

Conversation

I heard that this season is really bad for the rhinovirus.

Yeah, I read that it's been spreading quickly.

It seems like everyone around me is getting sick.

I know! We should definitely keep our hand sanitizer handy.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rhinovirus is formed from "rhino-" (from Greek "rhinos", meaning nose) and "virus" (from Latin, meaning poison or slimy liquid). The word refers to a virus that primarily affects the nose, causing respiratory infections.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rhino-' meaning 'nose' and 'virus' meaning 'poison' — this helps you remember that a rhinovirus is a virus that affects the nose.

Visually Confused Words