pathogen

noun

path·​o·​gen ˈpa-thə-jən 

: a specific causative agent (such as a bacterium or virus) of disease

Examples of pathogen in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Pre-cut produce also spoils quicker and could pick up pathogens when sliced open. —Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 23 Sep. 2025

Then that pathogen is introduced into the body, causing the immune system to produce antibodies against it. —Tara Haelle, Scientific American, 23 Sep. 2025

Beyond oncology, the platform has already demonstrated its ability to simultaneously profile both host and microbial RNAs in tuberculosis studies, offering insights into how pathogens interact with immune systems over time. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 22 Sep. 2025

Plus floodwaters wash away soil and potentially carry pollutants and pathogens that contaminate edible plants. —Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

patho- + -gen, after pathogenic, pathogenesis

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

pathogen

noun

patho·​gen

ˈpath-ə-jən

: a germ (as a bacterium or virus) that causes disease

Medical Definition

pathogen

noun

patho·​gen ˈpath-ə-jən 

: a specific causative agent (as a bacterium or virus) of disease