'germ' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'germen,' where 'germen' meant 'sprout' or 'bud.'

'germ' changed from the Old French word 'germe' and eventually became the modern English word 'germ.'

Initially, it meant 'a sprout or bud,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a microorganism, especially one that causes disease.'