Synonyms of 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

• origins
• roots
• seed
• beginnings
• originations
• seedbeds
• geneses
• fountains
• wells
• fonts
• fountainheads
• starts
• wellsprings
• springs
• wellheads
• births
• creations
• inceptions
• onsets
• incipiencies
• commencements
• thresholds
• outsets
• mornings
• launches
• dawns
• inaugurations

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of germs

Colostrum also contains prebiotics and immune-supporting compounds, which help feed beneficial gut bacteria, prevent harmful germs from attaching to the gut wall, and support a more balanced immune response. — Cheryl Fenton, Flow Space, 17 Aug. 2026

To note, the Mayo Clinic says a period of latent TB infection usually follows primary infection once immune system cells build a wall around lung tissue with the TB germs. — Matthew Ablon, CBS News, 17 Aug. 2026

The bugs' digestion and anatomy seem to prevent germs from being passed on efficiently, said Chow-Yang Lee, an entomologist at the University of California at Riverside. — ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026

Laundry Machines Laundry machines require occasional thorough cleaning to eliminate mold, mildew, and germs that accumulate over time. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Aug. 2026

Living closely with pets brings you closer to germs, but for most people, ordinary contact is low-risk. — Angela Haupt, Time, 12 Aug. 2026

Using a disinfectant on a surface still covered with grease, grime or chicken slime will keep the chemical from reaching — and killing — the germs underneath unless the surface is first thoroughly cleaned. — Sandee Lamotte, CNN Money, 11 Aug. 2026

And don’t be afraid to protect yourself and your skin from all those sneaky germs lurking around you, hemlines aside. — Kara Nesvig, Allure, 10 Aug. 2026

In those situations, additional washing is unnecessary and may even introduce new germs into your food. — Sarah Garone, HEALTH, 6 Aug. 2026