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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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of germ
Drinking water chlorination is a common way to disinfect water, as it gets rid of bacteria, viruses and other germs that can sicken people, according to the Minnesota Department of Health.
—
Julia Marnin, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2025
Also Consider Germs The biggest consideration for me in deciding whether to go to Disney World with our newborn was the potential exposure to germs.
—Melissa Willets, Parents, 19 Mar. 2025
This drug-free nasal suction device works quickly to soothe nasal passages by sucking out mucus, allergens and germs.
—Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 5 Apr. 2025
This can cause skin cracking, giving germs a place to enter.
—Casey Gallagher, Health, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for germ
Julia Marnin, Miami Herald, 27 Mar. 2025
Also Consider Germs The biggest consideration for me in deciding whether to go to Disney World with our newborn was the potential exposure to germs.
—Melissa Willets, Parents, 19 Mar. 2025
This drug-free nasal suction device works quickly to soothe nasal passages by sucking out mucus, allergens and germs.
—Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 5 Apr. 2025
This can cause skin cracking, giving germs a place to enter.
—Casey Gallagher, Health, 3 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for germ
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germ
Noun
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Columbus was a stand-in for the nation’s hagiographic origin story, much like the Mayflower or its Western pioneers.—
Philip Elliott,
Time,
28 Apr. 2025
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Typically, the first film in a Marvel franchise establishes the protagonist’s origins, and the sequels present that character with challenges from increasingly formidable opponents.—
Jelani Cobb,
New Yorker,
28 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Medications and lifestyle changes that address the root cause may help ease a dry cough, including: GERD and acid reflux: Medications like proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 blockers help reduce the amount of acid your stomach produces.—
Lindsay Curtis,
Health,
27 Apr. 2025
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But a personal encounter with veganism pulled her back to her culinary roots — this time with a mission.—
Sierra Knoch,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
27 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Raspberry seed oil and vitamin E provide nourishment and protection overnight.—
Daniella Gray,
MSNBC Newsweek,
30 Apr. 2025
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After all, their 2023 run to the NBA Finals – dethroning the No. 1 overall seed in the first round – was one of the most appealing storylines of the last decade.—
Shane Young,
Forbes.com,
29 Apr. 2025
Noun
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Type 1: The Starting Goal The first type of financial goal is the one set at the beginning of a financial journey.—
Andrew Rosen,
Forbes.com,
24 Apr. 2025
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There were language gaps, especially at the beginning.—
Essence,
Essence,
24 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Germ.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germ. Accessed 5 May. 2025.
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