earthworm

noun

earth·​worm ˈərth-ˌwərm How to pronounce earthworm (audio)
: a terrestrial annelid worm (class Oligochaeta)
especially : any of a family (Lumbricidae) of numerous widely distributed hermaphroditic worms that move through the soil by means of setae and feed on decaying organic matter

Examples of earthworm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Barred owls are stocky, more aggressive and have an appetite for prey such as rats and voles as well as birds, reptiles, frogs, earthworms, fish and crustaceans. The San Diego Union Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2025 It was once believed the Worm Moon's name was derived from earthworms wriggling through March's warming soil, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac, which heralded the first signs of spring as birds returned to feast on them. John Tufts, Louisville Courier Journal, 13 Apr. 2025 That may be due to the emergence of earthworms around this time of year, as the weather warms up and spring nears. Joe Hernandez, NPR, 11 Mar. 2025 Hammerhead worms are known predators of our friendly neighborhood earthworms and should be killed to protect them. Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for earthworm

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of earthworm was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Earthworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthworm. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

earthworm

noun
earth·​worm -ˌwərm How to pronounce earthworm (audio)
: a long slender annelid worm that lives in damp earth, moves with the aid of bristles, and feeds on decaying organic matter

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