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
Relevance
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
Specifically speaking, the toilet seat and flush handle are harboring germs and bacteria that need to be sanitized with the help of a disinfectant wipe.
—
Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2025
Chicken and turkey carried the highest-risk strains of bacteria, but pork and beef also carried the illness-causing germs.
—Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2025
Dirt and germs breed bad odors.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025
Exposure to any germs could've killed her.
—Christian Orozco, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2025
Everything that might harbor germs was dangerous.
—New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2025
Also, steer clear of hand dryers, which Exum said can disperse germs.
—The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Oct. 2025
Each one-liter bottle helps kill 99% of bad breath germs, strengthen enamel and fight cavities.
—Nora Colomer
May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 7 Oct. 2025
The pandemic may have played a role, too, with widespread masking and limited exposure to germs from 2021 to 2023, fewer people built up short-term immunity.
—Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 7 Oct. 2025
Ashlyn Needham, Southern Living, 3 Nov. 2025
Chicken and turkey carried the highest-risk strains of bacteria, but pork and beef also carried the illness-causing germs.
—Cara Lynn Shultz, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2025
Dirt and germs breed bad odors.
—Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 Oct. 2025
Exposure to any germs could've killed her.
—Christian Orozco, NBC news, 16 Oct. 2025
Everything that might harbor germs was dangerous.
—New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2025
Also, steer clear of hand dryers, which Exum said can disperse germs.
—The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Oct. 2025
Each one-liter bottle helps kill 99% of bad breath germs, strengthen enamel and fight cavities.
—Nora Colomer
May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 7 Oct. 2025
The pandemic may have played a role, too, with widespread masking and limited exposure to germs from 2021 to 2023, fewer people built up short-term immunity.
—Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 7 Oct. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germs
Noun
-
With similarly humble origins, Frank Howard’s famous rock, which was brought back to him by a fan from California’s Death Valley, began as a doorstop.—
Elizabeth Hutchison Hicklin,
Southern Living,
8 Nov. 2025
-
Since then, research into the disease and its origins has expanded significantly, uncovering genetic, biochemical and environmental factors that may contribute to its onset and progression.—
The San Diego Union Tribune,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
8 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
The roots anchor in the soil, providing a firm foundation for stems, branches, and leaves.—
Megan Hughes,
Better Homes & Gardens,
8 Nov. 2025
-
Mulching too early traps heat and tricks plant roots to remain active and produce new growth.—
Mary Marlowe Leverette,
Southern Living,
8 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
When teams are fighting for home-court advantage or top-six seeds in their conference or even just trying to make the Play-In Tournament, this early-season execution in crunch time will provide a massive advantage or disadvantage.—
Zach Harper,
New York Times,
10 Nov. 2025
-
This flavorful twist to the classic cranberry chutney has a little something extra, thanks to the addition of cayenne pepper, fresh ginger, cloves, and mustard seeds.—
Alana Al-Hatlani,
Southern Living,
10 Nov. 2025
Noun
-
This is a year of new beginnings and adventures!—
Georgia Nicols,
Denver Post,
8 Nov. 2025
-
In straightforward and compelling prose, Sammy, then 40, tells the story of his vaudeville beginnings, his growth as an entertainer, and his movement through America.—
Questlove,
The Atlantic,
7 Nov. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Germs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germs. Accessed 15 Nov. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share