# coronavirus

CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/coronavirus
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

a type of virus that can cause illnesses ranging from a common cold to more serious diseases. It gets its name from the crown-like spikes on its surface.

For teachers: any of a group of RNA viruses that cause respiratory and digestive infections in humans and animals. Characterised by a lipid envelope covered with club-shaped projections resembling a solar corona.

## Examples

- The doctor explained how the coronavirus spreads through the air.
- Public health officials monitored the new coronavirus strain to determine if it caused more severe symptoms than previous versions.
- While many varieties of coronavirus only cause mild upper respiratory tract infections, certain zoonotic strains have crossed the species barrier to cause significant global health emergencies.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.