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 Plus, enhancements of earthworm castings, alfalfa meal, kelp meal, and feather meal provide nutrients and serve as natural fertilizers. Renee Freemon Mulvihill, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2024 Little marine worms called polychaete, a cousin of earthworms, have their own special way of surviving a hurricane. Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY, 26 Sep. 2024 The mix also contains sphagnum peat moss to improve drainage, and several organic fertilizers, such as earthworm castings, poultry manure, kelp meal, and bat guano, to help your plants grow bigger and produce more flowers/fruit. Renee Freemon Mulvihill, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2024 The hedgehogs mostly eat mollusks, beetles, and earthworms—species with blood-clotting mechanisms that can protect them from anticoagulant rodenticides. Bydina Fine Maron, science.org, 10 July 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 4 Nov. 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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