germ theory

American  

noun

1. Pathology. the theory that infectious diseases are due to the agency of germs or microorganisms.

2. Biology. biogenesis.

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germ theory British  

noun

1. the theory that all infectious diseases are caused by microorganisms

2. the theory that living organisms develop from other living organisms by the growth and differentiation of germ cells

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Etymology

Origin of germ theory

First recorded in 1870–75

Example Sentences

The author appreciates what a terrific advance modern germ theory represents, but she also recognizes its tendency to generate absurd excesses.

From The Wall Street Journal

Take, for example, Kennedy’s staunch rejection of germ theory in favor of “miasma theory.”

From Salon

Boosted by the discovery of germ theory in the mid-1800s, these departments prevented disease through large-scale projects.

From Salon

Kennedy has spent two decades diving so far down the conspiracy theory rabbit hole that he now sounds like he doubts even basic germ theory.

From Salon

For a man who claims it's time for a "break" in medical research into infectious disease, it was likely an irritating irony to present such a compelling reminder of the validity of germ theory.

From Salon