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.
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 Their diet consists primarily of insects and other soil-dwelling creatures, including earthworms and grubs. — Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 5 Aug. 2026 Healthy soil is alive with creatures, from earthworms to beneficial fungi, bacteria, and other microbes. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 July 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 14 Aug. 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

Nglish: Translation of earthworm for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about earthworm

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