pathogenic microbe; disease-causing microorganism
Technical term used in medicine, biology, and public health to refer to bacteria, viruses, fungi, or other microorganisms that can cause disease.
This research investigates the transmission routes of pathogenic microbes.
Handwashing is a basic way to protect yourself from pathogenic microorganisms.
Compound of 病原 (pathogen, cause of disease) + 微生物 (microorganism). The term is a straightforward technical coinage from these Sino-Japanese elements.