germ
Pronunciation:
/d͡ʒɜːm//d͡ʒɝm/noun
Definitions
The small mass of cells from which a new organism develops; a seed, bud or spore.
A pathogenic microorganism.
The embryo of a seed, especially of a seed used as a cereal or grain. See Wikipedia article on cereal germ.
The origin of an idea or project.
Example: the germ of civil liberty
verb
Definitions
To germinate.
To grow, as if parasitic.