germ-free

germ-free

English

Etymology

From germ +‎ free.

Adjective

germ-free (not comparable)

1. Without any (especially harmful) microorganisms; aseptic. [from 19th c.]
2. (sciences) Specifically, pertaining to an animal with no microorganisms living in or on it, used in gnotobiotic research.
   • 2018, Nicola Davis, The Guardian, 256 March:

     It is worth being cautious: many studies show associations rather than cause and effect, and some are based only on studies in germ-free mice and have not been explored in humans.

Alternative forms

• germfree