worm
worm Lexical Profile
worm Game Scores & Validity
• noun
Any of numerous creeping or burrowing invertebrate animals with long, slender, soft bodies and no limbs, such as earthworms or nematodes.
"After the heavy rain, dozens of earthworms emerged from the soil onto the wet pavement."
A self-replicating malicious computer program that spreads rapidly across networks, often causing disruption or damage.
"The cybersecurity team quickly patched the vulnerability before the worm could infect the entire corporate network."
A weak, despicable, or contemptible person.
"He proved himself to be a spineless worm when he abandoned his friends in their time of need."
• verb
To move with a slow, crawling, or wriggling motion, especially to squeeze through tight spaces.
"The mechanic had to worm his way under the dashboard to fix the broken wiring."
To insinuate oneself into another's favor or confidence through subtle, devious, or persistent means.
"She managed to worm her way into the director's inner circle by constantly offering flattery and doing extra favors."
To treat an animal, such as a dog, cat, or horse, with a specialized drug to destroy and expel internal parasites.
"The veterinarian reminded the new puppy owner to worm the dog every few months to maintain its health."
• Rhymes for worm
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
From Old English 'wyrm', meaning serpent, dragon, or creeping creature, derived from Proto-Germanic '*wurmiz' and ultimately from the Proto-Indo-European root '*wrmis'.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.