germ
[noun]
Synonyms:
- microbe, bacterium, bug (informal), microorganism, virus
- beginning, embryo, origin, root, rudiment, seed, source, spark

[TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲

germ /dʒɜːm $ dʒɜːrm/ noun [countable]
[Date: 1400-1500; Language: French; Origin: germe, from Latin germen 'seed, bud, germ', from gignere; ⇒ genital]

1. a very small living thing that can make you ill ⇒ bacteria:
Put disinfectant down the toilet to kill any germs.

2. the germ of an idea/theory/feeling etc the early stage of an idea, feeling etc that may develop into something bigger and more important:
The germ of a story began to form in his mind.

3. technical the part of a plant or animal that can develop into a new plant or animal:
germ cells containing DNA
⇒ wheatgerm, germ warfare

[TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲

germ
noun
ADJ. virulent The epidemic was caused by a particularly virulent flu germ.
flu, typhoid, etc.
VERB + GERM carry Children carry all kinds of germs home from school.
harbour Cracks and scratches in work surfaces can harbour germs.
destroy, kill They used bleach to kill any germs in the sink and drain.
GERM + NOUN warfare

[TahlilGaran] Collocations Dictionary ▲