Meaning of the word germinate in English

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

germinate

US /ˈdʒɝː.mə.neɪt/
UK /ˈdʒɜː.mɪ.neɪt/
"germinate" picture

Verb

1.

(of a seed or spore) to begin to grow and put out shoots after a period of dormancy

Example:
The seeds will germinate within a few days if kept warm and moist.
The spores germinate on the surface of the leaf.
2.

(of an idea or feeling) to begin to develop

Example:
The idea for the novel began to germinate in her mind.
A sense of doubt was starting to germinate.