How Do You Spell CALICIVIRIDAE?

Pronunciation: [kˈalɪsˌɪvɪɹˌɪdiː] (IPA)

The word Caliciviridae is pronounced /kəˌlisiˈvɪrɪdiː/. It is a family of RNA viruses that can cause gastroenteritis in humans and animals. The spelling of this word may seem complex, but it can be broken down into smaller parts. "Calici" comes from the Latin word "calix" meaning "chalice" or "cup". "Viridae" refers to a family of viruses. So, Caliciviridae literally means "cup-shaped viruses". Even though the spelling may be difficult, understanding the meaning behind the word can help with memorization.

CALICIVIRIDAE Meaning and Definition

1. Caliciviridae is a family of small, non-enveloped viruses that belong to the viral order, Calicivirales. This family comprises a diverse group of viruses that infect a wide range of animals, including humans. The name Caliciviridae is derived from "calyx," which means a cup-like structure, due to the characteristic cup-shaped depressions seen on the surface of these viruses when viewed under an electron microscope.

   Members of the Caliciviridae family are known for causing gastroenteritis, an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. They can lead to symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and fever in infected individuals. Human caliciviruses, such as noroviruses and sapoviruses, are the leading cause of viral gastroenteritis globally, especially in crowded environments like cruise ships, hospitals, and schools.

   Caliciviridae viruses are small and have a single-stranded RNA genome. They are not enveloped, meaning they lack a lipid membrane surrounding their protein capsid. The viral genome encodes various proteins essential for replication, including viral enzymes and structural proteins that make up the capsid.

   These viruses are highly contagious and can spread through direct person-to-person contact, consumption of contaminated food or water, and contact with contaminated surfaces. They can withstand various environmental conditions and are highly resistant to common disinfectants, which contributes to their ability to cause outbreaks.

   In conclusion, Caliciviridae is a family of non-enveloped viruses responsible for causing gastroenteritis in humans, characterized by symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting. They have a small size, with single-stranded RNA genomes and distinctive cup-shaped depressions on their surface.

Common Misspellings for CALICIVIRIDAE

• Caliciviridiae
• Calicivirid

Etymology of CALICIVIRIDAE

The word "Caliciviridae" has its etymology rooted in Latin and Greek.

The term "calici" originates from the Latin word "calix", which means "wine cup" or "goblet". It refers to the distinct, cup-like shape of the virus particles under an electron microscope.

The suffix "-viridae" is from the Latin word "viridae", which refers to a family or a tribe. In virology, the suffix "-viridae" is commonly used to denote a taxonomic family of viruses.

Therefore, "Caliciviridae" essentially means a family (viridae) of viruses that have a cup-like (calici) appearance.