Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to or caused by streptococci: Used to describe something connected to the bacteria of the genus Streptococcus.
2. Noun:
   • Spherical Gram-positive bacteria occurring in pairs or chains: A common informal term for bacteria of the genus Streptococcus. These bacteria can cause various infections in humans.

Examples

• Adjective:
  • The doctor diagnosed a strep infection after the throat culture.
  • She was prescribed antibiotics for her strep throat.
• Noun:
  • The lab test confirmed the presence of strep.
  • Not all sore throats are caused by strep; many are viral.

Advanced Usage

• "Strep" as a modifier in medical terminology: The adjective form is almost exclusively used in compound medical terms before a noun.
  • The rapid strep test provides quick results.
  • He was treated for a strep skin infection.

Variants and Related Words

• Streptococcus (n): The full, formal scientific name for the genus of bacteria.
• Streptococcal (adj): The more formal adjective equivalent to "strep."
  • A streptococcal infection requires prompt treatment.

Synonyms

• Streptococcal (adj): Pertaining to streptococci.
• Streptococcus (n): The bacterium itself (formal term).

Notes on Usage

• "Strep" is primarily a medical/informal term: The word is most commonly used in healthcare contexts (e.g., "strep throat," "strep test"). In everyday conversation, "strep" is understood to refer to the bacterial infection, particularly in the throat.
• Difference from viral infections: It is important to distinguish "strep" (bacterial) from viral causes of similar symptoms, as the treatment (antibiotics) is different.

Adjective

1. of or relating to or caused by streptococci

Noun

1. spherical Gram-positive bacteria occurring in pairs or chains; cause e.g. scarlet fever and tonsillitis