noun
nematode
NEM-uh-tohd
Nematode (noun) means a worm belonging to the large phylum Nematoda, such as a roundworm or threadworm. Example: “The soil sample contained thousands of nematodes.”
noun
1
A worm belonging to the large phylum Nematoda, such as a roundworm or threadworm.
"The soil sample contained thousands of nematodes."
"Some nematodes are harmless, while others damage crops or infect animals."
"Gardeners sometimes introduce beneficial nematodes to control pests naturally."
How to use nematode
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA thin, thread-like worm from a large group called Nematoda.
When to use it
It is a technical zoological term rather than everyday vocabulary.
Memory tip
Picture a thin thread to connect the Greek root nema to the worm's shape.
Trace the full origin ↓
Common pairings
parasitic nematode
beneficial nematodes
nematode infection
soil nematodes
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The soil sample contained thousands of _____.
Etymology
The word comes from the scientific name Nematoda, which was itself taken from Ancient Greek. It traces back to a Greek word for thread combined with an ending meaning like, reflecting the worms' thin, thread-like bodies.
Synonyms
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roundworm
Rhymes for nematode
See all rhymes for nematode →Frequently asked questions
What is a nematode?
A nematode is a type of worm from the phylum Nematoda, which includes roundworms and threadworms.
Are nematodes the same as roundworms?
Roundworm is a common synonym for nematode, both referring to worms of this phylum.
Why is it called a nematode?
The name comes from an Ancient Greek word for thread, describing the worm's thin, filament-like shape.
What is the meaning of nematode?
"nematode" (noun) means a worm belonging to the large phylum Nematoda, such as a roundworm or threadworm.
