Worms Meaning and Definition
Pronunciation
/ˈwɔːrmz/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A type of invertebrate animal that belongs to the phylum Annelida and is commonly found in soil, compost, and decaying organic matter, characterized by their long, slender bodies.
Etymology
The word ‘Worms’ is derived from the Old English word ‘wrme’, meaning ‘serpent’ or ‘worm’, which is thought to have originated from the Proto-Germanic word ‘*wriziz’, related to the Proto-Indo-European root ‘*rewdh-‘ meaning ‘to twist’, referring to the worm’s ability to twist its body.
Usage Notes
The term ‘Worms’ is often used to refer to a variety of invertebrate animals that resemble worms, but it is most commonly associated with the earthworm, which is a type of annelid worm.
Cultural References
In popular culture, worms have been featured in various forms of media, such as video games, books, and films. For example, the classic video game ‘Worms’ features teams of worms engaging in turn-based battles.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The phrase ‘as busy as a worm’ is often used to describe someone who is very active and industrious.
Related Words or Phrases
- Earthworm
- Invertebrate
- Annulated
- Soil
Collocations
- Worms and dirt
- Worms and compost
- Worms and soil
Frequency of Use
The word ‘Worms’ is commonly used in scientific and technical contexts, particularly in the fields of biology, ecology, and environmental science.
Common Misspellings
- Woorms
- Worms