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 Named for the emergence of earthworms as the ground thaws, the worm moon is supposed to symbolize renewal and growth. The Arizona Republic, 4 Mar. 2024 According to stargazing app Star Walk, the lunar name marks the appearance of earthworms in the soil — a symbol of the forthcoming spring. Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 1 Mar. 2024 When European earthworms were introduced to North America, these non-native earthworms quickly invaded many North American soils. oregonlive, 26 Aug. 2023 More than half of what city-dwelling foxes eat comprises birds, earthworms, seeds, fruits, insects and small mammals. Carlyn Kranking, Smithsonian Magazine, 5 Jan. 2024 In the wild, the snakes will feed on earthworms, insects, frogs, salamanders, and toads and are harmless to humans. Elizabeth Gamillo, Discover Magazine, 30 Nov. 2023 Contrary to popular belief, an urban fox’s diet is made up of more than 50% natural food, such as earthworms, wild birds, seeds and fruits. Cecilia Rodriguez, Forbes, 28 Nov. 2023 Sprinkle in earthworm castings and vegetable fertilizer. Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 2 Dec. 2023 They have been observed crawling on an earthworm and rubbing their head over the earthworm, at which stage scientists think the hammerheads are using their toxin. Kasha Patel, Washington Post, 22 July 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'earthworm.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

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

Dictionary Entries Near earthworm

Cite this Entry

“Earthworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthworm. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

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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