nematode

noun

nem·​a·​tode ˈne-mə-ˌtōd 

ˈnē-

: any of a phylum (Nematoda or Nemata) of elongated cylindrical worms parasitic in animals or plants or free-living in soil or water

called also roundworm

Examples of nematode in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Numerous types of nematodes and pests can create havoc with a carrot crop, especially those that love carrot roots. —Haniya Rae, Martha Stewart, 12 Mar. 2026

Consider selecting varieties resistant to fusarium and verticillium wilts, tobacco mosaic virus, and/or nematodes. —Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 9 Mar. 2026

Old pots can sometimes harbor harmful nematodes or bacteria that may interfere with the health and growth of your African violets. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 Feb. 2026

Treat your lawn for grubs with a biological control like beneficial nematodes or milky spore, says Dolshun. —Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 7 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

ultimately from Greek nēmat-, nēma

First Known Use

1865, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing nematode

• golden nematode
• meadow nematode
• root-knot nematode

Rhymes for nematode

• afterload
• episode
• internode
• microcode
• multimode
• nesselrode
• overflowed
• overload
• overrode
• radioed
• torpedoed
• trematode

Kids Definition

nematode

noun

nem·​a·​tode ˈnem-ə-ˌtōd 

: any of a major group of long cylinder-shaped worms that are parasites in animals or plants or live in soil or water

called also roundworm

Medical Definition

nematode

1 of 2 adjective

nem·​a·​tode ˈnem-ə-ˌtōd 

: of or relating to the phylum Nematoda

nematode

2 of 2 noun

: any worm of the phylum Nematoda