Germ

Pronunciation

• UK, IPA: /d͡ʒəːm/
• US enPR: jûrm, IPA: /d͡ʒɝm/
• Rhymes: -ɜː(r)m

Origin

From Middle French germe, from Latin germen ("bud, seed, embryo").

Full definition of germ

Noun

1. (biology) The small mass of cells from which a new organism develops; a seed, bud or spore.
2. A pathogenic microorganism.
3. The origin of an idea or project.the germ of civil liberty
4. The embryo of a seed, especially of a seed used as a cereal or grain. See Cereal germ.

Derived terms

Verb

1. To germinate
2. (slang) to grow, as if parasitic
• "I’m addicted, want to germ inside your love" - Just Can't Get Enough by the Black Eyed Peas