Worm: meaning, definitions and examples

Generic term for a small, elongated creature that typically crawls or burrows. Can also describe a person who is disliked or behaves in a deceitful or cowardly way (negative connotation).

• There is a worm in the garden.
• Don't trust him, he's a real worm.

Specifically describes worms that live in the soil and are important for composting and soil aeration. Often used in gardening and environmental contexts.

• Earthworms help to improve soil quality.
• While digging in the garden, she found several earthworms.

Used specifically in fishing contexts to describe worms that are often used as bait. It may also refer to a variety of earthworm.

• He kept a box of angleworms for his fishing trip.
• The angleworm wriggled on the hook as he cast his line.

This term can also metaphorically describe a despicable person. It carries a negative connotation when used to insult someone's character.

• He's nothing but a worm for betraying his friends.
• Don't trust him; he's a real worm.

This term is used in cybersecurity to describe a type of malicious software that can replicate itself and spread across networks. It carries a negative connotation because it describes a harmful entity in the realm of computer systems.

• The IT team discovered a computer worm spreading through the network.
• A computer worm can cause significant damage to data and disrupt business operations.

This term encompasses all types of malicious software, including viruses, worms, and trojans. It's often used in discussions about cybersecurity threats and computer protection.

• Make sure your antivirus software is up to date to protect against malware.
• The company experienced a data breach due to malware.

Used to refer to small, legless creatures, often found in soil. It can also be used metaphorically to describe someone sneaky or dishonorable.

• I found a worm in the garden while planting flowers.
• He's nothing but a worm, always trying to cheat others.

Used to describe movement similar to that of a snake, involving sliding or gliding motion. Typically applied to reptiles but can metaphorically describe someone moving stealthily.

• The snake began to slither through the grass.
• He slithered into the room without making a sound.

Often used to describe slow, stealthy movement. This can apply to both animate and inanimate objects, including people who move in a sneaky way. It also has a negative connotation when describing someone who behaves in an unsettling or overly cautious manner.

• The spider started to creep up the wall.
• He gives me the creeps; he's always lurking around.