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 Nutritious meals, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and frequent handwashing can help keep germs away and immune systems strong. — Katie Lockwood, STAT, 28 Oct. 2026 More people are also being kept alive by invasive medical devices, such as heart-lung machines and ventilators, which can create pathways for germs including fungi to enter the body. — Dominique Mosbergen, Time, 27 Oct. 2026 This does away with any germs that might remain, as well as cleaning up the matte film that the bleach leaves behind on my floors. — The Spruce, 27 Oct. 2026 Disinfect high-touch surfaces like door handles and remotes to reduce germs before the weekend. — Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 22 Oct. 2026 These germs can make people sick with an illness called salmonellosis. — Sacbee.com, 21 Oct. 2026 Researchers First Looked to Animal Models for Clues Your gut is home to a community of microbes called the microbiome, and these helpful germs play an important role in digestion. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 7 Oct. 2026 PhoneSoap Basic kills up to 99% of germs in 10-minute sessions. — ABC News, 3 Oct. 2026 Turn up the heat only when grease, germs or heavy soil give you a specific reason. — Ryan Brennan, Charlotte Observer, 28 Sep. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germs
  1. origins
  2. roots
  3. seed
  4. beginnings
Noun
  • The origins of El Niño El Niño is a natural climate pattern that starts in the tropical Pacific Ocean.
    — Ava Berger, NPR, 29 Oct. 2026
  • Much of the debate since has centered on the origins and evidence in support of that list.
    — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 29 Oct. 2026
Definition of origins
Noun
  • Erika, 16, is a third-generation Japanese-Brazilian who feels like an outsider in the country she was born in and wants nothing to do with her family’s roots.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 28 Oct. 2026
  • The Cheesecake Factory The Cheesecake Factory's roots were in Beverly Hills, California, where David Overton opened the first restaurant in 1978 to showcase his mother Evelyn's cheesecakes.
    — Deirdre Bardolf, FOXNews.com, 28 Oct. 2026
Definition of roots
Noun
  • Adjusting mowing height, watering deeply but less frequently, and following appropriate fertilization practices may improve its appearance without additional seed.
    — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2026
  • The Guardians are slated to play Farmington (the 13th seed in Class LL) Tuesday night for the CCC championship.
    — Lori Riley, Hartford Courant, 3 Nov. 2026
Definition of seed
Noun
  • Like an unassuming plant from outer space, Little Shop of Horrors had humble beginnings—but managed to blossom at a surprising rate.
    — Andrew Buss, Vanity Fair, 29 Oct. 2026
  • The new moon in Scorpio on November 9, followed by Mercury’s direct station in the same sign on November 13, signals new beginnings and forward motion related to the things that bring you a sense of personal fulfillment.
    — Steph Koyfman, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Oct. 2026
Definition of beginnings

Browse Nearby Words

germproof
germs
germy
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Cite this Entry

“Germs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germs. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026.

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