any of several spherical or oval bacteria of the genus Streptococcus, occurring in pairs or chains, certain species of which are pathogenic for humans, causing scarlet fever, tonsillitis, etc.
Origin of streptococcus
From New Latin, dating back to 1875–80; see origin at strepto-, coccus
Related formsstrep·to·coc·cal[strep-tuh-kok-uh l]/ˌstrɛp təˈkɒk əl/, strep·to·coc·cic[strep-tuh-kok-sik]/ˌstrɛp təˈkɒk sɪk/, adjective
any Gram-positive spherical bacterium of the genus Streptococcus, typically occurring in chains and including many pathogenic species, such as S. pyogenes, which causes scarlet fever, sore throat, etc: family LactobacillaceaeOften shortened to: strep
bacteria genus, 1877, Modern Latin, coined by Viennese surgeon Albert Theodor Billroth (1829-1894) from Greek streptos "twisted" + Modern Latin coccus "spherical bacterium," from Greek kokkos "berry" (see cocco-). So called because the bacteria usually form chains.
A genus of gram-positive, anaerobic, often pathogenic bacteria having an ovoid or spherical appearance and occurring in pairs or chains, including many erythrocytolytic and pathogenic species that cause erysipelas, scarlet fever, and septic sore throat in humans.
Any of various bacteria of the genus Streptococcus that are gram-positive cocci and are normally found on the skin and mucous membranes and in the digestive tract of mammals. One type of streptococcus, Group A, is a common pathogen in humans and causes various infections, including strep throat, scarlet fever, pneumonia, and some types of impetigo.
