Worm

/wɜːrm/ noun

Definition

A worm is a small, soft animal with a long, thin body and no legs, often found in soil or inside other animals. Worms help break down dead plants and improve the soil.

Etymology

“Worm” comes from Old English “wyrm,” which once meant any creeping or crawling creature, including snakes and dragons. Over time, the meaning narrowed to the small, legless creatures we know today.

Kelly Says

The same word that gave us tiny worms was once also used for huge dragons in old stories. So when you see a harmless earthworm, remember: in ancient tales, it would have been a mighty monster.

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