as in origin
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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Recent Examples of germ
In addition, people should prevent the spread of germs.
—
Katie Wiseman, The Indianapolis Star, 27 Dec. 2024
But being exposed to an ambient, low-level dose of germs is very different from gulping down a concentrated slug of them.
—Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 20 Dec. 2024
Well-Kept, another Southern brand, created their wipes to clean and remove germs on computers, tablets, and phones.
—Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 15 Dec. 2024
The hot water cycle will kill off bacteria and other germs that may have accumulated in the gasket and crevices.
—Alyssa Shaffer, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for germ 
Katie Wiseman, The Indianapolis Star, 27 Dec. 2024
But being exposed to an ambient, low-level dose of germs is very different from gulping down a concentrated slug of them.
—Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 20 Dec. 2024
Well-Kept, another Southern brand, created their wipes to clean and remove germs on computers, tablets, and phones.
—Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 15 Dec. 2024
The hot water cycle will kill off bacteria and other germs that may have accumulated in the gasket and crevices.
—Alyssa Shaffer, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for germ
Recent Examples of Synonyms for germ
Noun
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Understanding the history and origin of these laws is critical to that effort.—
Peter L. Markowitz,
New York Daily News,
22 Jan. 2025
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The movement bears the prestigious Geneva Seal, a certification that guarantees not only the movement's Geneva origin but also its superior chronometry and finishing.—
Bhanu Chopra,
Forbes,
22 Jan. 2025
Noun
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The first lady, who has consistently championed American designers throughout her time in the public eye, stayed true to her style roots with the Ralph Lauren creation.—
Ty Gaskins,
WWD,
20 Jan. 2025
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Set plants only deep enough such that their root collars (where branches meet the root system) are level with or slightly above the surrounding soil level.—
Kim Toscano,
Southern Living,
20 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Every week, the number of teams that could potentially be a No. 1 seed dwindles more.—
Mark Schindler,
The Athletic,
24 Jan. 2025
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The Chiefs, behind a ball-control offense and stout defense, went 15-2 in the regular season to clinch the AFC’s No. 1 seed and a first-round bye.—
Peter Sblendorio,
New York Daily News,
24 Jan. 2025
Noun
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Popular on Variety At the beginning, these demonstrations are at the margins of the film — more like background noise than an integral part of the plot.—
Murtada Elfadl,
Variety,
18 Jan. 2025
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As a footnote: Kudos to the producers to honoring the legendary former host Peter Marshall with a mention at the beginning of the first episode.—
Marc Berman,
Forbes,
17 Jan. 2025
Thesaurus Entries Near germ
Cite this Entry
“Germ.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/germ. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.
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