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

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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 Wastewater tracking is the testing of community sewage for viruses and other germs to help health officials monitor disease spread and trends, often before cases show up in clinical testing data. — Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026 Xenex LightStrike Infections acquired inside hospitals remain a serious problem, especially when harmful germs survive on surfaces after a patient leaves a room. — Atharva Gosavi, Interesting Engineering, 30 Aug. 2026 They’re born before antibodies – protective proteins that recognize incoming germs – can be transferred from mother to baby during the later stages of pregnancy. — Brenda Goodman, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2026 Climate change is spreading dangerous germs Our globalized food supply chain has a lot to do with our food safety — and that isn’t going to change any time soon. — Dylan Scott, Vox, 27 Aug. 2026 As horrifying as this might sound, remember that the Romans didn’t know about germs. — Andrew Coletti, Popular Science, 27 Aug. 2026 For many kids, the best part of school is being with friends — sharing space, playing on the playground and trading germs. — CBS News, 24 Aug. 2026 If desired, finish with a product like Clorox Disinfecting Mist to help eliminate any remaining bacteria and germs or lingering smells. — Karla Walsh, Southern Living, 23 Aug. 2026 Bear in mind that a communal bathroom can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria and germs. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 21 Aug. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germs
  1. origins
  2. roots
  3. seed
  4. beginnings
Noun
  • Norway’s monarchy has old roots, tracing its origins to King Harald Fairhair in the ninth century.
    — Jan M. Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Others turn them off to disguise the origins of the shipment.
    — Jane Arraf, NPR, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of origins
Noun
  • Over the next several decades, Mexican American families poured in and set down roots.
    — Marissa J. Lang, NPR, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Norway’s monarchy has old roots, tracing its origins to King Harald Fairhair in the ninth century.
    — Jan M. Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026
Definition of roots
Noun
  • In addition to protein, pumpkin seeds are rich in healthy fats, fiber, zinc, and other nutrients that are beneficial for heart health and sleep.
    — Lindsay Curtis, HEALTH, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Directions In a medium bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the olive oil, vinegar, sugar, sesame seeds, poppy seeds, a generous pinch of salt, and a couple cracks of pepper.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 26 Aug. 2026
Definition of seed
Noun
  • Humble beginnings Born on January 19, 1946 in a one-room cabin in Tennessee, Parton grew up the fourth of 12 children.
    — CNN Money, CNN Money, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Kate O’Flynn has been a working actor for 20 years and, on this blinding August morning, is adjusting to the beginnings of her first-ever trip to Los Angeles.
    — David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 24 Aug. 2026
Definition of beginnings

Browse Nearby Words

germproof
germs
germy
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Cite this Entry

“Germs.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germs. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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