arrow worm

noun

variants or less commonly arrowworm
ˈer-ō-ˌwərm How to pronounce arrow worm (audio)
ˈer-ə-,
ˈa-rō-,
ˈa-rə-
: any of a phylum (Chaetognatha) of small planktonic wormlike marine organisms having curved bristles on either side of the head for seizing prey

Examples of arrow worm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Fitted with massive, munching jaws on the inside of their mouths, the 13 fossil arrow worms analyzed in the study also feature long, lateral fins — a perfect fit for swimming through the open ocean. Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 9 Jan. 2024 According to the researchers, modern arrow worms are smaller predators that survive on meals of tiny zooplankton. Sam Walters, Discover Magazine, 9 Jan. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'arrow worm.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1859, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of arrow worm was in 1859

Dictionary Entries Near arrow worm

Cite this Entry

“Arrow worm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/arrow%20worm. Accessed 19 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

arrow worm

noun
: any of various small ocean animals that look like worms
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