pathogens
n. countable C1 Advanced US //ˈpæθədʒənz// UK //pˈæθədʒənz// pathogens
n. tiny living things like bacteria or viruses that can make you sick. They enter your body and cause infections or diseases.
n. biological agents, such as bacteria, viruses, or fungi, that cause disease in their host. Often used in medical or scientific contexts to describe the source of an infection.
Hand washing helps to kill pathogens on your skin.
The hospital implemented strict cleaning protocols to prevent the spread of airborne pathogens among vulnerable patients.
Modern water treatment facilities use ultraviolet light and chemical filtration to ensure that harmful pathogens are neutralized before the water reaches residential plumbing systems.
Usage
Usually appears in the plural form when discussing general health or biology.