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Discuss Email this Feedback RSS/XML Permalink A.Word.A.Day--fomites fomites (FOM-i-teez) plural noun Any inanimate object, such as a book, money, carpet, etc. that can transmit germs from one person to another. [From Latin fomites, plural of fomes (touchwood, tinder), from fovere (to warm).] Today's word in Visual Thesaurus. "You and your husband are really betting money that coins and currency are terrific fomites - inanimate objects that may be contaminated with infectious organisms and transmit them. But according to the Food and Drug Administration it's 'not likely.' The paper used for currency contains fungicidal chemicals that remain effective throughout the life of its circulation." Diane Crowley; Bride-to-be Has Genetic Questions About Fiance; Chicago Sun-Times; May 7, 1989. This week's theme: words related to medicine. X-Bonus Smoking cures weight problems... eventually. -Steven Wright, comedian (1955- )

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