Search Dictionary
Definition of pathogen

pathogen

/ˈpæθ.ə.dʒən/
path · o · gen
Adverb:pathogenically
•
Plural:pathogens
•
Adjective:pathogenic
JUMP TO:

pathogen Lexical Profile

pathogen Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A bacterium, virus, fungus, parasite, or other microorganism capable of causing disease in its host.

Example

"Washing hands thoroughly is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of airborne and surface-borne pathogens."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for pathogen

• Rhymes for pathogen

• Nearby Words

pathfinder
pathfinding
pathless
pathogen
pathological
pathologically
pathologist

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century as a back-formation from "pathogenic," combining the Greek root "pathos" (meaning "suffering" or "disease") with "-gen" (meaning "producer of").

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Pathogen. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/pathogen
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.