1. the process by which a seed begins to grow and develop into a new plant
Usage: biology
2. the beginning or early development of something
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The germination of bean seeds requires warm soil and adequate moisture.
• Students observed the germination process in their science experiment.
• Cold temperatures can delay seed germination in the spring.
• The gardener tested the germination rate of the old seeds.
• This idea represents the germination of a new business concept.
• The germination of democratic movements spread across the region.