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
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Recent Examples of germs
According to the health department, people who breathe in those airborne germs can become infected.
—
Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team,
CBS News,
25 June 2026
Cross-contamination happens when germs move from one surface or food to another.
—
Julie Scott,
Verywell Health,
24 June 2026
However, those same germs on the outside of the skin can make their way in during the cutting process.
—
Alexandra Frost,
USA Today,
22 June 2026
How to spot brewing diseases There’s precedent for germs invading major sporting events.
—
Lauran Neergaard,
Los Angeles Times,
15 June 2026
Dishwashers really do need the occasional cleaning, though, because over time grease, soap scum, and food debris can build up, reducing efficiency and providing a breeding ground for germs.
—
Daley Quinn,
Southern Living,
14 June 2026
While millions of soccer fans cheer or groan over World Cup matches spanning North America, health officials will be on high alert for germs.
—
Lauren Neergaard,
Chicago Tribune,
10 June 2026
Regardless of the type, warm or hot water is best, although Shields advises using hot water for dish towels to really tackle the grease, germs, and food stains.
—
Cori Sears,
The Spruce,
8 June 2026
Throw Pillow Covers and Inserts Throw pillows, especially those used frequently, should be washed regularly to prevent germs, odors, and soil from building up.
—
Jolie Kerr,
Better Homes & Gardens,
2 June 2026
Cbs News Atlanta Digital Team,
CBS News,
25 June 2026
Cross-contamination happens when germs move from one surface or food to another.
—
Julie Scott,
Verywell Health,
24 June 2026
However, those same germs on the outside of the skin can make their way in during the cutting process.
—
Alexandra Frost,
USA Today,
22 June 2026
How to spot brewing diseases There’s precedent for germs invading major sporting events.
—
Lauran Neergaard,
Los Angeles Times,
15 June 2026
Dishwashers really do need the occasional cleaning, though, because over time grease, soap scum, and food debris can build up, reducing efficiency and providing a breeding ground for germs.
—
Daley Quinn,
Southern Living,
14 June 2026
While millions of soccer fans cheer or groan over World Cup matches spanning North America, health officials will be on high alert for germs.
—
Lauren Neergaard,
Chicago Tribune,
10 June 2026
Regardless of the type, warm or hot water is best, although Shields advises using hot water for dish towels to really tackle the grease, germs, and food stains.
—
Cori Sears,
The Spruce,
8 June 2026
Throw Pillow Covers and Inserts Throw pillows, especially those used frequently, should be washed regularly to prevent germs, odors, and soil from building up.
—
Jolie Kerr,
Better Homes & Gardens,
2 June 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germs
Noun
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On the June 25 episode of Jenna Bush Hager's Open Book with Jenna podcast, Ryan spoke about the origins of her pseudonym.
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Between the two cities, the similarities and differences in the origins of those communities make Melbourne’s culinary fabric both innately familiar to Angelenos, and also something wholly distinct to experience.
Noun
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Aniston, on the other hand, leaned into the shoe's casual roots, wearing hers with jeans and a tank top for a relaxed look that felt quintessentially summer.
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The dynamic Sun in your 9th House of Exploration quincunxes powerful Pluto in your 4th House of Home, so growth calls while roots demand attention.
Noun
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Salmon with ponzu sauce, mango, fava beans, avocado, sesame seeds, chilli mayo, spring onion and white rice is the fuel for the afternoon.
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Tucker and Rushing’s home runs started the sunflower seed showers in a nine-run inning, which included a home run by Mookie Betts.
Noun
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Prince Harry gave the ring (ironically a sign of rebellion and new beginnings) to his new wife Meghan Markle in 2018.
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Lutnick’s letter marks the beginnings of a new regulatory regime that gives the US government control over the release of frontier AI models.
Cite this Entry
“Germs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germs. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.
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