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

The kinds of intestinal worms that dogs can get are most commonly roundworm, hookworm, whipworm, and tapeworm. —Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 18 Jan. 2026

In Lowndes County, some residents were sickened by hookworms linked to raw sewage. —Tammy Webber, Los Angeles Times, 17 Jan. 2026

Both dogs also had hookworms, the report states. —David Goodhue, Miami Herald, 9 Jan. 2026

Dogs could also ingest intestinal parasites, such as roundworms or hookworms, left from animal droppings. —Liz O'Connell, MSNBC Newsweek, 21 Aug. 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