as in origin
the source from which something grows or develops
this hastily scribbled equation on a cocktail napkin became the germ of a new scientific theory
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of germ
Cross-contamination happens when germs move from one surface or food to another.
—
Julie Scott,
Verywell Health,
24 June 2026
These antibiotics work by interfering with the bacterial cell wall, killing the germ and clearing the infection.
—
Emily Kay Votruba,
EverydayHealth.com,
23 June 2026
While millions of soccer fans cheer or groan over World Cup matches spanning North America, health officials are on high alert for germs.
—
Lauran Neergaard,
Los Angeles Times,
15 June 2026
Still, travel experts say some spaces are more prone to germ buildup simply because of how frequently they’re used.
—
Kristy Tolley,
Travel + Leisure,
13 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for germ
Julie Scott,
Verywell Health,
24 June 2026
These antibiotics work by interfering with the bacterial cell wall, killing the germ and clearing the infection.
—
Emily Kay Votruba,
EverydayHealth.com,
23 June 2026
While millions of soccer fans cheer or groan over World Cup matches spanning North America, health officials are on high alert for germs.
—
Lauran Neergaard,
Los Angeles Times,
15 June 2026
Still, travel experts say some spaces are more prone to germ buildup simply because of how frequently they’re used.
—
Kristy Tolley,
Travel + Leisure,
13 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for germ
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germ
Noun
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The census ancestry and origin data are estimates based on a sample of the population and include margins of error that can be large for small population groups.
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Understanding the origin of life requires addressing a collection of overlapping scientific questions.
Noun
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The roots of the fall-out stretch back to 2019, before filming for the franchise’s fourth feature instalment began, when Margera signed a wellness agreement with the producers which committed him to sobriety amid his struggles with alcoholism.
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Simply apply 1 to 2 inches of natural mulch, like bark mulch, over the roots of your plants to lock in soil moisture and keep the mulch line at least 1 inch away from the plant's stems.
Noun
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With their jewel-like seeds, vibrant color and sweet-tart flavor, pomegranates have long been prized around the world.
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The salsa macha is an oily, toasty condiment pasty with peanuts and sesame seeds.
Noun
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Prior to the trial beginning, the judge agreed that questions about Brown’s felony conviction for his 2009 assault on then-girlfriend Rihanna would be barred from testimony.
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June was a frenetic month for the metro Atlanta restaurant scene, driven in part by a flurry of downtown openings timed to the beginning of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Cite this Entry
“Germ.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germ. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.
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