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

When to Apply Beneficial Nematodes To maximize the benefits of nematodes, they must be applied at the proper time. —Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 8 May 2026

The musky fragrance of marigolds will keep nematodes far away, eliminating one of the biggest threats to tomatoes. —Heather Bien, Southern Living, 4 May 2026

Asparagus releases a chemical toxic to root knot nematodes, a microscopic round worm that creates multiple disease and growth problems in tomatoes, eggplant, potatoes and peppers. —Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 3 May 2026

Often recommended as a pest-repelling companion plant, marigolds are particularly good at decreasing nematode populations in the soil and preventing ongoing pest issues. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Apr. 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