Meaning of the word germ in English

What does germ mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

germ

US /dʒɝːm/

UK /dʒɜːm/

a microorganism, especially one that causes disease

Example:

•

Wash your hands to avoid spreading germs.

•

The doctor explained how different germs affect the body.

Synonym:

microbe bacterium virus pathogen bug

the part of a plant from which it grows; a seed or spore

Example:

•

The wheat germ is the most nutritious part of the grain.

•

These seeds contain the germ of new life.

Synonym:

embryo bud sprout seed spore

an initial stage from which something may develop

Example:

•

The idea was still in its germ stage.

•

The germ of a revolution was forming.

Synonym:

origin root seed source beginning