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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Alluding to the attack only in the title, Anedda notes a few events showing the effects, patterns and tasks of an illustrator, the men seeking martyrdom, as well as the earthworms, gnats and the snail working the soil. — Wallis Wilde-Menozzi, Literary Hub, 27 Aug. 2026 These spots also had the highest levels of organic matter needed for vital bacteria, fungi, earthworms, and other underground organisms. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 26 Aug. 2026 The team determined that vermicomposting, a process which uses earthworms to break down organic material, is the best way to create nutrient-rich compost from cotton. — Cleo Levin, Footwear News, 13 Aug. 2026 Hammerhead worms also prey on native earthworms, which can be harmful to the ecosystem. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 11 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for earthworm

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

Rhymes for earthworm

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Browse Nearby Words

earthwork
earthworm
earthy
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Cite this Entry

“Earthworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthworm. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about earthworm

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