pathogen
Pathogen (noun) means a microorganism, such as a bacterium or virus, that causes disease. Example: “Handwashing helps prevent the spread of harmful pathogens.”
How to use pathogen
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA germ or microbe that makes you sick, such as a bacterium, virus, or fungus.
Word forms
pathogens plural
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Handwashing helps prevent the spread of harmful _____.
Etymology
From Greek patho- ("disease") plus -gen ("producing") — literally, "disease-producer."
Rhymes for pathogen
See all rhymes for pathogen →Frequently asked questions
What does “pathogen” mean?
The word “pathogen” means a microorganism, such as a bacterium or virus, that causes disease. In plain terms, a germ or microbe that makes you sick, such as a bacterium, virus, or fungus.
How do you pronounce “pathogen”?
“Pathogen” is pronounced PA-thuhjn (/ˈpæθəd͡ʒn̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “pathogen” in a sentence?
Here is “pathogen” used in a sentence: “Handwashing helps prevent the spread of harmful pathogens.”
What part of speech is “pathogen”?
“Pathogen” is a noun.
Where does the word “pathogen” come from?
The word “pathogen” comes from Greek. From Greek patho- ("disease") plus -gen ("producing") — literally, "disease-producer.".
Is “pathogen” a common word?
“Pathogen” is an uncommon word in modern English.