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 robot also features a modular, multi-segment structure inspired by the way earthworms move through soil. Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 16 Jan. 2026 Other insects — including those crucial to ecosystem health, like bees and earthworms — are also exposed to the chemicals. Elise Schmelzer, Denver Post, 2 Jan. 2026 As soon as temperatures start to rise, insects, earthworms and microorganisms go back to work with accelerated activity. Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 30 Dec. 2025 In the soil in his palm, an earthworm wriggled. Madeline Heim, jsonline.com, 26 Dec. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Earthworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthworm. Accessed 30 Jan. 2026.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!