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Definition of tapeworm

tapeworm

/ˈteɪp.wɜːrm/
tape · worm
Plural:tapeworms
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tapeworm Lexical Profile

tapeworm Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A ribbon-like parasitic flatworm of the class Cestoda, which in its adult stage lives in the intestines of humans and other vertebrates, absorbing nutrients directly through its skin.

Example

"The veterinarian explained that dogs can often contract a tapeworm by accidentally ingesting infected fleas."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for tapeworm

• Rhymes for tapeworm

• Nearby Words

tapegrass
tapenade
tapestry
tapeworm
tapi
tapioca
tapir

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 16th century as a compound of 'tape' and 'worm', directly referencing the parasite's long, flat, ribbon-like appearance.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Tapeworm. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Oct 16, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/tapeworm
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