Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

stomach bug

American  
[stuhm-uhk buhg] / ˈstʌm ək ˌbʌg /

noun

  1. a short-term illness with digestive symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea, caused by a virus or bacteria.


Etymology

Origin of stomach bug

First recorded in 1955–60

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Suryakumar said dashing opener Abhishek Sharma has recovered well from a stomach bug and was likely to play.

From Barron's • Feb. 14, 2026

Denmark were booed off at the end of their draw with Belarus, head coach Brian Riemer was furious at their performance and there is a stomach bug in their camp they fear might spread.

From BBC • Nov. 17, 2025

It increases with bad stress like a difficult meeting or a stomach bug, as well as good stress like a family reunion or a birthday party.

From Slate • Sep. 9, 2025

A stomach bug sidelined a few of my reservations, but the meals I did manage to enjoy made a strong case for booking another trip soon.

From Salon • May 28, 2025

“What is it, Skeeter? You didn’t catch Hilly’s stomach bug, did you?”

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "stomach bug" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com