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
Synonyms & Similar Words
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Recent Examples of germ
Items like remotes, light switches and doorknobs can carry a lot of germs.
—
Hunter Boyce, AJC.com, 2 Mar. 2026
Worth checking out This Saniderm Tattoo Aftercare Bandage protects your new skin from harmful bacteria and germs as your new tattoo heals.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026
This combination can also help eliminate germs and disinfect granite surfaces.
—Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026
Therefore, cheese that is not properly pasteurized may contain germs that could be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, older adults, pregnant women, infants and young children.
—Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for germ
Hunter Boyce, AJC.com, 2 Mar. 2026
Worth checking out This Saniderm Tattoo Aftercare Bandage protects your new skin from harmful bacteria and germs as your new tattoo heals.
—Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 25 Feb. 2026
This combination can also help eliminate germs and disinfect granite surfaces.
—Caitlin Sole, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Feb. 2026
Therefore, cheese that is not properly pasteurized may contain germs that could be dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, older adults, pregnant women, infants and young children.
—Fernando Cervantes Jr, USA Today, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for germ
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germ
Noun
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As the spotlight settles on each of them, that person unspools a monologue, a candid account of their origins, their desires and dreams, their galaxy of excuses and explanations.—
Emily Nussbaum,
New Yorker,
12 Mar. 2026
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Most students were children of West African origin born in the United States, and some were from European nations.—
MARK BANCHEREAU THE ASSOCIATED PRESS,
Arkansas Online,
12 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Coleman made his name as the co-founder of London’s Caravan restaurants and coffee roasters, and Coulton’s roots are in management consultancy.—
Bella Webb,
Vogue,
12 Mar. 2026
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Bob Johnson’s SoCal roots include coaching Los Amigos from 1970-72.—
Dan Albano,
Oc Register,
12 Mar. 2026
Noun
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Michigan, Nebraska, Michigan State and Illinois received the top four seeds in the Big Ten men’s basketball tournament and will receive triple byes into the quarterfinals this week at the United Center.—
Colleen Kane,
Chicago Tribune,
9 Mar. 2026
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To be effective, pre-emergent herbicides must be applied before seeds germinate, generally in early spring for summer annuals and perennials, or early fall for winter annuals.—
Kim Toscano,
Southern Living,
8 Mar. 2026
Noun
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The Defense Department has been exploring ways to harden positions and counter drones ever since the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine conflict four years ago.—
James LaPorta
March 5,
CBS News,
6 Mar. 2026
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According to the announcement, the transaction is expected to close in either the end of the first financial quarter or beginning of the second quarter.—
Mason Leib,
ABC News,
6 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Germ.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germ. Accessed 14 Mar. 2026.
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