germ plasm: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowTechnical/Scientific (Biology, Genetics, Agriculture)
Quick answer
What does “germ plasm” mean?
The genetic material of an organism that is transmitted to its offspring.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The genetic material of an organism that is transmitted to its offspring.
A specialized substance within the germ cells (reproductive cells) considered to be responsible for heredity; more broadly, the hereditary material or the genetic resources of a population or species that can be preserved.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The term is used identically in scientific contexts in both varieties. Spelling of related words may differ (e.g., 'centre of germ plasm collection' vs. 'center of germ plasm collection').
Connotations
Identical scientific connotations. Slightly archaic or historical in tone in both varieties when used outside of specific technical fields like agricultural conservation.
Frequency
Equally low and specialized in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “germ plasm” in a Sentence
The N of germ plasmGerm plasm for N (e.g., for conservation)V (preserve/conserve/collect) germ plasmVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “germ plasm” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The laboratory will germplasm-cryopreserve the samples.
American English
- The goal is to germplasm-bank these heirloom varieties.
adverb
British English
- The cells were analysed germ-plasmically.
American English
- The trait was inherited germ-plasmically.
adjective
British English
- The germ-plasm repository is of national importance.
American English
- They conducted a germplasm diversity survey.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually unused, except potentially in the niche business of agricultural biotechnology or seed companies.
Academic
Used in biology, genetics, agricultural science, and history of science papers, particularly those discussing genetic conservation or historical theories.
Everyday
Extremely rare. Would likely be misunderstood or require explanation.
Technical
Primary context. Used in technical documents on plant/animal breeding, genetic resource conservation (gene banks), and historical scientific texts.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “germ plasm”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “germ plasm”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “germ plasm”
- Confusing 'germ plasm' with 'cytoplasm' or 'plasma membrane'.
- Using it as a general synonym for 'genes' in modern genetic discourse where more precise terms exist.
- Misspelling as 'germplasm' (though this is an accepted solid form in some technical writing).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Conceptually, yes, as it refers to hereditary material. However, 'germ plasm' is a broader, older term encompassing the theory of its location in germ cells, while 'DNA' specifies the chemical molecule responsible.
It represents the genetic blueprint passed to offspring. Preserving diverse germ plasm (e.g., in seed banks) is crucial for food security, breeding new crop varieties, and conserving biodiversity.
The German biologist August Weismann (1834–1914) developed the germ plasm theory, which was instrumental in rejecting the inheritance of acquired characteristics.
Yes. While often used for plants, it originally and correctly applies to the hereditary material in the germ cells of any organism, including animals and humans.
The genetic material of an organism that is transmitted to its offspring.
Germ plasm is usually technical/scientific (biology, genetics, agriculture) in register.
Germ plasm: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdʒɜːm ˌplæzəm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdʒɝːm ˌplæzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Bank of germ plasm”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the GERM (as in germ cell, the reproductive seed) and PLASM (as in cytoplasm or plasma, the living substance). Together, it's the living hereditary 'substance' from germ cells.
Conceptual Metaphor
HEREDITY IS A SUBSTANCE (that is passed on); GENETIC RESOURCES ARE A BANK ACCOUNT (to be deposited and withdrawn from a germ plasm bank).
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'germ plasm' most commonly used today?