SARS-CoV-2

noun

ˈsärz-kō-ˈvē-ˈtü How to pronounce SARS-CoV-2 (audio)
: a strain of the coronavirus (Betacoronavirus pandemicum) that is the causative agent of COVID-19 compare sars-cov-1

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.
Something about this virus limits its transmission in ways that SARS-CoV-2 did not. — John Drake, Forbes.com, 7 May 2026 Mpro, an enzyme that allows SARS-CoV-2 to replicate in host cells, holds structural similarities. — Noah Lyons, San Diego Union-Tribune, 7 Jan. 2026 This outbreak is not likely to spark a pandemic, mostly because the hantavirus is less contagious than influenza, measles, and SARS-CoV-2. — Joseph Allen, The Atlantic, 12 May 2026 In contrast, one person infected with SARS-CoV-2, could, on average, infect 15 to 20 others. — Elizabeth Yuko, Rolling Stone, 8 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for SARS-CoV-2

Word History

First Known Use

2020, in the meaning defined above

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

Browse Nearby Words

SARS-CoV-1
SARS-CoV-2
Sarsee
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“SARS-CoV-2.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/SARS-CoV-2. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Medical Definition

SARS-CoV-2

noun
ˈsärz-kō-ˈvē-ˈtü How to pronounce SARS-CoV-2 (audio)
: a strain of the coronavirus (Betacoronavirus pandemicum) that is the causative agent of COVID-19 see delta variant, omicron variant compare sars-cov-1
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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