germ

(noun, verb)

noun

1. anything that provides inspiration for later work

Similar word(s): seed, source

Definition categories: thought, inspiration

2. a small apparently simple structure (as a fertilized egg) from which new tissue can develop into a complete organism

Definition categories: body, structure

3. a minute life form (especially a disease-causing bacterium); the term is not in technical use

Similar word(s): bug, microbe

Definition categories: animal, microorganism

Sentences with germ as a noun:

- the germ of civil liberty

verb

1. To germinate.

2. (slang) To grow, as if parasitic.