earthworm

noun

earth·​worm ˈərth-ˌwərm 

: 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

Moles eat insects, snail larvae, spiders, and small invertebrates, but their favorite foods are earthworms and white grubs. —Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 17 Oct. 2025

Known for its timid and gentle nature, the snake is semiaquatic and nocturnal, feeding on earthworms in captivity. —Real-Time News Team, Miami Herald, 8 Aug. 2025

Snakes, venomous or not, maintain the balance of nature by eating their prey, such as earthworms, rodents and even other snakes. —Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 July 2025

Jumping worms: Another species of earthworm, these worms can grow up to seven inches in length and are often brown, with a light, cream-colored saddle, according to the N.C. State Extension. —Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 29 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for earthworm

• affirm
• bookworm
• confirm
• cutworm
• infirm
• midterm
• tapeworm
• wireworm
• angiosperm
• echinoderm
• berm
• ferm

Kids Definition

earthworm

noun

earth·​worm -ˌwərm 

: a long slender annelid worm that lives in damp earth, moves with the aid of bristles, and feeds on decaying organic matter