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
Since dark and moist environments allow for germs and microbes to thrive, a knife block can get particularly grimy if knives are stored damp, wet, or have not been thoroughly cleaned.
—
Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2026
Without deep cleaning spaces or items (such as small appliances), a host of problems occur from the inevitable accumulation of dust, allergens, bacteria, germs, soap scum, mold and mildew.
—Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 13 Jan. 2026
To fill the gap in our understanding of how space affects germs, researcher Phil Huss and his team conducted a direct-comparison study.
—Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 13 Jan. 2026
Never wear your lenses while asleep, either, since that can cause dryness, irritation, abrasions and entrapment of germs that can lead to serious infections.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for germ
Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2026
Without deep cleaning spaces or items (such as small appliances), a host of problems occur from the inevitable accumulation of dust, allergens, bacteria, germs, soap scum, mold and mildew.
—Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 13 Jan. 2026
To fill the gap in our understanding of how space affects germs, researcher Phil Huss and his team conducted a direct-comparison study.
—Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 13 Jan. 2026
Never wear your lenses while asleep, either, since that can cause dryness, irritation, abrasions and entrapment of germs that can lead to serious infections.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 10 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for germ
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germ
Noun
-
Maybe another working definition of folklore is a narrative with relatively wide acceptance but no clear origin.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
28 Jan. 2026
-
Yet the primary data required for compliance—fiber origin, material composition, chemical inputs—are generated and held upstream by suppliers and processors.—
Alexandra Harrell,
Sourcing Journal,
28 Jan. 2026
Noun
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Likewise, the sugars produced by the green leaves of a scion cannot be shared with the lower stem and roots of the plant if the graft fails.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
23 Jan. 2026
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Now, guests can sleep in those same rooms, breathe in its history, and experience live music that can trace its roots all the way back to those glory days.—
Paul Oswell,
Condé Nast Traveler,
22 Jan. 2026
Noun
-
Fresh papaya seeds are covered with a slimy coating that prevents them from germinating inside the fruit.—
Samantha Johnson,
Martha Stewart,
13 Jan. 2026
-
The seed round included primary and secondary capital.—
Jennifer Weil,
Footwear News,
13 Jan. 2026
Noun
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The beginning of the year is often the time for contemplation and action.—
Heather L. Locus,
Forbes.com,
24 Jan. 2026
-
Near the beginning of the site’s trail, a replica village contains several ‘ewaas, which are traditional Kumeyaay homes.—
Julie Gallant,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
23 Jan. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Germ.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germ. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.
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