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Definition of maggot

maggot

/ˈmæɡ.ət/
Plural:maggots
•
Adjective:maggoty
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maggot Lexical Profile

maggot Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A soft-bodied, legless larva of an insect, especially that of a fly (order Diptera), often found in decaying organic matter.

Example

"The forensic entomologist determined the time of death by examining the development stages of the maggots on the remains."


2

A despicable, untrustworthy, or contemptible person.

Example

"In his furious resignation letter, he referred to the corrupt executives as greedy maggots feeding off the company's hard-earned success."


3

A sudden, eccentric fancy or bizarre whim.

Example

"He was a restless inventor who always had some new maggot in his head about how to revolutionize the local milling industry."

Synonyms
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• Rhymes for maggot

Word Origin & Etymology

From Middle English 'magot', an alteration of the earlier 'maddok' (earthworm or maggot), derived from Old Norse 'maðkr'.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020

Cite this Entry


Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Maggot. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 15, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/maggot
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