C1verbformalnaturescience
US/ˈdʒɜːr.mɪ.neɪt/
UK/ˈdʒɜː.mɪ.neɪt/
to begin to grow from a seed; to make a seed start to grow
In context
Beans usually germinate within a week if the soil is warm and damp.
The seeds failed to germinate because the winter was too cold.
Soaking the seeds overnight helps them germinate faster.
Words that go with germinate
adjective + noun
- germinating seedsGerminating seeds need water and warmth.
verb + adverb
- germinate quicklyRadish seeds germinate quickly in warm soil.
- germinate slowlyIn cold weather, the seeds germinate slowly.
verb + preposition
- germinate in springMost wildflowers germinate in spring.
- germinate within daysLettuce seeds can germinate within days.
- germinate in the darkSome seeds germinate in the dark, while others need light.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The seeds are germinated.Correct: The seeds germinate.