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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Example Sentences
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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
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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
-
Slice each pepper in half lengthwise; remove and discard seeds.—
Holly Riordan,
Better Homes & Gardens,
7 Jan. 2026
-
Some fruit pits and seeds, like those in apples and pears, contain traces of cyanide, which is harmful to birds.—
Madeline Buiano,
Martha Stewart,
6 Jan. 2026
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 11 Jan. 2026.
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