Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
germ
noun
/jɜːrm/
Definition
A germ is a microscopic organism, especially one that can cause disease.
Examples
- Washing your hands regularly can help eliminate harmful germs.
- Some germs are beneficial and essential for processes like digestion.
- The doctor explained how certain germs can lead to infections.
Meaning
The term ‘germ’ often refers to a variety of microorganisms including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa that can lead to illness.
Synonyms
- microbe
- bacterium
- virus
- pathogen
