What is the meaning of word pathogen?

A pathogen is a biological agent that causes disease or illness to its host. This could be a:

* Microorganism: Bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and prions.

* Macroscopic organism: Parasites like worms and insects.

Pathogens can cause a wide range of illnesses, from the common cold to life-threatening diseases like HIV/AIDS and malaria.

Here's a breakdown of the word:

* Path-: Relating to disease or suffering.

* -gen: Something that produces or creates.

So, pathogen literally means "disease-producing agent."