Thesaurus results for GERMS

germs

noun

plural of germ

as in origins

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

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.

Recent Examples of germs While most healthy people will recover from an illness caused by harmful germs in raw milk—or in foods made with raw milk—within a short time, some can develop symptoms that are chronic, severe, or even life-threatening. —

Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 26 Feb. 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 Normally, mucus works with tiny hair-like cells in the nose to trap allergens and germs. —

Brian Mastroianni, Health, 23 Feb. 2026 Propolis, what bees use to insulate the walls of their hives to protect against outside germs, is brilliant for soothing sore throats, bolstering our immune systems, and protecting against free radicals. —

Brianna Peters, Vogue, 23 Feb. 2026 Naturally, the point of laundering is to kill all those germs; however, some folks may not be washing their towels in a manner that will actually accomplish that goal. —

Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 21 Feb. 2026 Also from an evolutionary perspective, being isolated would’ve meant less exposure to disease-causing germs, hence a weaker antiviral response. —

Erica Sloan, SELF, 19 Feb. 2026 Food safety For three decades, federal health officials tracked food poisoning infections caused by eight germs. —

Mike Stobbe, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026

Recent Examples of Synonyms for germs

Noun

Gomis, who has Bissau-Guinean and Senegalese origins, wrote and directed the film which stars a mix of actors and newcomers, leading with Katy Correa and D’Johé Kouadio as a mother-and-daughter duo.

— Elsa Keslassy, Variety, 26 Feb. 2026
While the origins are still debated, the festival shows the goat’s long association with Ireland’s landscapes and community life.

— Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 26 Feb. 2026