Covid-19, in slang

RONA

Think of the virus’s name shortened like a first name you’d call a friend.

"Rona" is a casual slang term for Covid-19 that emerged during the pandemic, blending humor with the virus’s formal name (coronavirus). The nickname likely comes from shortening "corona" and adding a first-name-like "-a" ending, making it sound more personal or even mockingly friendly. It’s often used in memes or informal conversations to refer to the virus in a less serious tone.