hookworm

noun

hook·​worm ˈhu̇k-ˌwərm 

1

: any of several parasitic nematode worms (family Ancylostomatidae) that have strong buccal hooks or plates for attaching to the host's intestinal lining and that include serious bloodsucking pests

2

: infestation with or disease caused by hookworms

especially : a lethargic anemic state in humans due to blood loss from hookworms feeding in the small intestine

Examples of hookworm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Weighing only 7 pounds and riddled with hookworms, he was taken in by Angels to the Animals, a rescue group that hoped to give him a shot at survival. —Lila Hempel-Edgers, Charlotte Observer, 23 June 2025

After 12 months, the people who got hookworms had lower insulin resistance and reduced fasting blood sugar levels. —Smithsonian Magazine, 12 June 2025

The problem has existed so long and was so pervasive that a 2017 study determined 1 in every 3 adults in the county had the intestinal parasite hookworm. —Curtis Bunn, NBC news, 1 May 2025

They got caught in a cyclone; Davis almost died of hookworm. —Chris Stirewalt, The Hill, 4 Apr. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

hookworm

noun

hook·​worm -ˌwərm 

1

: a parasitic nematode worm having strong hooks or plates about the mouth

2

: a diseased state marked by blood loss, paleness, and weakness due to hookworms in the intestine

called also hookworm disease

Medical Definition

hookworm

noun

hook·​worm ˈhu̇k-ˌwərm 

1

: any of several parasitic nematode worms of the family Ancylostomatidae that have strong buccal hooks or plates for attaching to the host's intestinal lining and that include serious bloodsucking pests

2

: ancylostomiasis