whipworm

noun

whip·​worm ˈ(h)wip-ˌwərm 

: a parasitic nematode worm (genus Trichuris) with a body that is thickened posteriorly and that is very long and slender anteriorly

especially : one (T. trichiura) of the human intestine

Examples of whipworm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

An additional clue provided some evidence of human presence–the eggs of a human parasite specifically, those of a whipworm named Trichuris. —Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 11 June 2025

Dogs were returned with rashes, bald spots, and whipworm. —Saleen Martin, USA TODAY, 17 Mar. 2025

Hookworms stick to the wall of the small intestine and suck blood, posing a serious threat; roundworms are typically seen in puppies but adult dogs can get them too; whipworms live in the cecum and can be quite hard to diagnose; and tapeworms, which are typically carried by fleas. —Kevin Lynn, Newsweek, 7 Jan. 2025

Intestinal parasites like hookworms and whipworms rank among the world’s most pressing public health crises. —Kate Golembiewski, Discover Magazine, 1 Aug. 2024

In addition to risks of hookworms and roundworms, pets are also vulnerable to whipworm, giardia and coccidia. —Julia Wuerz, The Conversation, 6 Feb. 2024

Petrified roundworm and whipworm eggs suggest that Roman-era and late medieval Brits were most likely to be plagued with these pests. —Joanna Thompson, Scientific American, 21 June 2022

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

whipworm

noun

whip·​worm -ˌwərm 

: a parasitic nematode worm of the family Trichuridae with a body that is thickened posteriorly and that is very long and slender anteriorly

especially : one of the genus Trichuris (T. trichiura) that parasitizes the human intestine