germane
adjective
Relevant to a subject under consideration; pertinent.
Etymology
From Latin germanus "having the same parents, genuine," from germen "sprout, bud." Originally meant "closely related" before shifting to "relevant."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"That point is not germane to our discussion."
- 2.
"Please keep your comments germane to the topic."
- 3.
"The evidence was deemed germane to the case."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Germane is related to German (the people) and germ (seed). The connection is the idea of common origin—siblings are "germane" to each other, and germane topics spring from the same source.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (G, E, R, M, A, N, E)
Scrabble Value: 10 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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