germ plasm

American  

noun

1. the protoplasm of the germ cells containing the chromosomes.

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germ plasm British  

noun

1. 1. the part of a germ cell that contains hereditary material; the chromosomes and genes

   2. the germ cells collectively Compare somatoplasm

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Etymology

Origin of germ plasm

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

Although dismaying to some Lee fans, the belated publication of “Watchman,” an apprentice work containing the germ plasm of “Mockingbird,” cast light on the virtues and limitations of the author and her canonical novel.

From New York Times

This old plant stuff also became the germ plasm that Mr. Grant has tapped to breed and select new ornamentals.

From New York Times

Some would-be architects of our future look toward a time when we will be able to alter the human germ plasm by design.

From The New Yorker

If a new disease or pest were to wipe out a strain of wheat, for example, it’s probable that the germ plasm at Svalbard could be used to breed in resistance.

From Washington Post

They explain how a unique combination of trace minerals, germ plasm, organic alpine soil and unique climatic conditions give it “supernatural” qualities.

From Washington Post