streptococcus: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

'Strep throat' is the common name for a specific illness (pharyngitis) caused primarily by the bacterium *Streptococcus pyogenes*. So, 'streptococcus' is the bacterium, and 'strep throat' is one disease it causes.

Yes, this is called 'colonization'. People can carry streptococcus bacteria in their throat or on their skin without showing any signs of illness, but they may still potentially spread it to others.

Both are Gram-positive cocci (round bacteria). The key difference is in their arrangement: Streptococcus cells typically divide in one plane, forming chains ('strepto-'), while Staphylococcus cells divide in multiple planes, forming irregular clusters ('staphylo-'). They also cause different types of infections.

A specific species, *Streptococcus pneumoniae* (also called pneumococcus), is a major cause of community-acquired pneumonia, as well as meningitis and otitis media. It is distinct from the 'strep throat' species.

A genus of Gram-positive, spherical bacteria that typically grow in chains and are responsible for various diseases in humans and animals.

Streptococcus is usually technical/scientific, medical; can appear in everyday conversation (e.g., 'strep throat') but the full term is formal. in register.

Streptococcus: in British English it is pronounced /ˌstrɛptəˈkɒkəs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌstrɛptəˈkɑːkəs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.