strep

Everyday

1. (informal) Strep is short for streptococcus, a kind of bacteria that can cause illness. tree →
2. Strep, or strep throat, is a sore throat caused by these bacteria, with fever and pain when swallowing, which doctors may treat with antibiotics. tree →

In the lessons

In health lessons and at the doctor's, especially in the USA and Canada, children hear «strep throat» and «a strep test», where a cotton swab is rubbed at the back of the throat. In the UK people often say «a throat infection» or «tonsillitis» instead. It is spread by coughs, sneezes and sharing cups, so hand-washing helps. Phrases: «strep throat», «a strep test», «Group A strep».

Examples

• I had strep throat and missed two days of school. tree →
• The doctor did a quick strep test with a swab. tree →
• Strep is caused by bacteria, not a virus. tree →
• She took antibiotics for her strep. tree →
• Don't share water bottles if someone has strep. tree →
• The nurse said there was strep going around the class. tree →

Note

A clipped, informal word; the full scientific name is «streptococcus» (plural «streptococci»). Uncountable: «She has strep», not «a strep». A common cold is a virus; antibiotics do not cure viruses, but they can treat strep.