pathogenic

adjective

path·​o·​gen·​ic ˌpa-thə-ˈje-nik How to pronounce pathogenic (audio)
1
2
: causing or capable of causing disease
pathogenicity noun

Examples of pathogenic in a Sentence

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.
The best way to avoid exposure to the highly pathogenic avian influenza is to not come in contact with infected animals. Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 For other types of meat with more water activity (which will allow the potential growth of pathogenic bacteria), such as mortadella or prosciutto, refrigerate within 1 to 2 hours following the guide above. Cheeses: Soft cheeses will adhere to the same 1- to 2-hour limit. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 July 2025 Fresh droppings often contain viral RNA, enabling researchers to recover full genomes and assess the pathogenic potential of circulating strains. John Drake, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025 This groundbreaking development occurred on a farm in Yorkshire, England, where the highly pathogenic strain of H5N1 bird flu was identified in a female sheep during routine surveillance. Omer Awan, Forbes, 25 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pathogenic

Word History

Etymology

patho- + -genic, after French pathogénique, German pathogenisch

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pathogenic was in 1850

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pathogenic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pathogenic. Accessed 23 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

pathogenic

adjective
patho·​gen·​ic
ˌpath-ə-ˈjen-ik
: causing or capable of causing disease

Medical Definition

pathogenic

adjective
patho·​gen·​ic -ˈjen-ik How to pronounce pathogenic (audio)
1
2
: causing or capable of causing disease
pathogenic microorganisms
pathogenically adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on pathogenic

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