: the coronavirus (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 of the genus Betacoronavirus) that is the causative agent of COVID-19

Examples of SARS-CoV-2 in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Other viruses, like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and the SARS-CoV-2 virus that causes COVID-19, are also common during winter. Jennifer Welsh, Verywell Health, 11 Mar. 2025 There are two theories about where the virus, known as SARS-CoV-2, originated. Mary Kekatos, ABC News, 11 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

2020, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of SARS-CoV-2 was in 2020

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Cite this Entry

“SARS-CoV-2.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/SARS-CoV-2. Accessed 26 Mar. 2025.

Medical Definition

: the coronavirus (Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 of the genus Betacoronavirus) that is the causative agent of COVID-19 see delta variant, omicron variant
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