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 In terms of agricultural significance, the Worm Moon is a positive sign for farmers and gardeners because active earthworms benefit soil health. Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 25 Mar. 2024 His book begins with scenes of ecological devastation: dying earthworms, declining crop yields, collapsing fish stocks. Jennifer Szalai, New York Times, 8 June 2024 Named for the emergence of earthworms as the ground thaws, the worm moon is supposed to symbolize renewal and growth. Tiffany Acosta, The Arizona Republic, 25 Mar. 2024 It was first believed, according to the Old Farmer's Almanac, the Worm Moon's name was derived from earthworms wriggling through March's warming soil, which heralded the first signs of spring as birds returned to feast on them. John Tufts, The Indianapolis Star, 2 Jan. 2024 See all Example Sentences for earthworm 

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 30 Jun. 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

More from Merriam-Webster on earthworm

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