plural germs
1
a
: a small mass of living substance capable of developing into an organism or one of its parts
b
: the embryo with the scutellum of a cereal grain that is usually separated from the starchy endosperm during milling
2
: something that initiates development or serves as an origin : rudiments, beginning
3
: a microorganism causing disease : a pathogenic agent (such as a bacterium or virus)
broadly : microorganism

Examples of germ in a Sentence

the germ that causes tuberculosis the germ of an idea the germ layers of an embryo
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Always assume items have unseen germs or pests and clean them accordingly before bringing them into your home. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 29 June 2025 Scrub your way across the surface to dislodge any final particles and help remove germs and bacteria, then rinse the grill grates well with fresh water. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 28 June 2025 While most types of E. coli are harmless and help us digest food, produce vitamins, and protect us from harmful germs, according to the CDC, some cases lead to diarrhea, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, sepsis and other serious illnesses. Moná Thomas, People.com, 27 June 2025 This is advantageous because each type of bacteria performs different jobs, like breaking down food, strengthening the gut lining, and fighting harmful germs. Matt Fuchs, Time, 17 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for germ

Word History

Etymology

French germe, from Latin germin-, germen, from gignere to beget — more at kin

First Known Use

circa 1550, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of germ was circa 1550

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Germ.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/germ. Accessed 15 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

germ

noun
1
a
: a small mass of living substance capable of developing into a whole individual or one of its parts
b
: the embryo in the seed of a cereal (as corn or wheat) together with its cotyledon that is usually separated from the starchy part of the seed during milling
2
: something that serves as an origin
the germ of an idea
3
: a microscopic living thing
especially : one that causes disease

Medical Definition

germ

noun
1
: a small mass of living substance capable of developing into an organism or one of its parts
2
: a microorganism causing disease : a pathogenic agent (as a bacterium or virus)
broadly : microorganism

More from Merriam-Webster on germ

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