Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the virus that causes the disease known as coronavirus disease 2019. SARS-CoV-2 is in fact only one member of a large group of viruses known as coronaviruses. They are so named for their spiky or crown-like (corona) appearance under the microscope. Viruses within this family are genetically related, albeit distinct, viruses. 

Source: SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, Baylor College of Medicine (BCM)