earthworm — a long, thin, segmented worm that lives in soil and helps decompose organic matter
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: a long, thin, segmented worm that lives in soil and helps decompose organic matter
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈɜːrθwɜːrm/
Example Sentences
- My little brother screamed when he found an earthworm in his sandbox and thought it was alien spaghetti.
- Earthworms are essential for healthy soil because they break down organic matter.
- The early bird catches the worm, but the early earthworm gets eaten.
earthworm
NOUN[/ˈɜːrθwɜːrm/]
a long, thin, segmented worm that lives in soil and helps decompose organic matter
Segmented worm in garden soil
When a bookworm meets an earthworm!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word derives from Old English elements 'eorþe' (earth, ground) and 'wyrm' (worm, serpent), literally meaning 'ground worm.' Medieval farmers coined this descriptive term while observing the creature's role in enriching soil.
Breakdown
earth (Old English 'eorþe,' meaning ground or soil) + worm (Old English 'wyrm,' meaning worm or serpentine creature).
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“My little brother screamed when he found an earthworm in his sandbox and thought it was alien spaghetti.”
“Earthworms are essential for healthy soil because they break down organic matter.”
“The early bird catches the worm, but the early earthworm gets eaten.”
“Fishermen often use earthworms as bait because fish find them irresistible.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.