norovirus
noun
nor·o·vi·rus
ˈnȯr-ə-ˌvī-rəs
plural noroviruses
: any of a genus (Norovirus) of small, round, single-stranded RNA viruses that includes a single species (N. norwalkense) with various strains causing gastroenteritis in people and animals (such as cows, pigs, and dogs)
People spread the virus by eating food or drinking liquids that are contaminated with norovirus, touching surfaces or objects contaminated with norovirus and then touching their mouth or having direct contact with another person who is infected.—Cherie Black
Note: In people, noroviruses cause gastroenteritis marked chiefly by sudden onset diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and abdominal cramps.
see norwalk virusCite this Entry
“Norovirus.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/norovirus. Accessed 9 Jul. 2026.
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