germ

• Nom désignant un micro-organisme, en particulier un agent pathogène comme une bactérie ou un virus, ou encore la partie reproductive d'une graine ou d'un organe.

A noun referring to a microorganism, especially one that causes disease, such as a bacterium or virus.

1. Microorganism causing diseaseA2formalmedical

   A microscopic organism, especially a bacterium or virus, that can cause illness.

   microbe pathogène

   • Wash your hands to get rid of germs.
   • The doctor said the infection was caused by a common germ.
   • Germs can spread quickly in crowded places.

   Synonymesbacillusbugmicrobemicroorganismpathogen

2. Beginning or seedB2formal

   The earliest stage or origin of something, often used figuratively.

   germe, origine, commencement

   • The germ of an idea started forming in his mind.
   • This small project was the germ of a much larger company.
   • She planted the germ of doubt in his thoughts.

   Synonymesbudembryonucleusoriginrootseedsourcespark

   Antonymesconsequenceendoutcomeproductresult