Definition

a terrestrial annelid worm (class Oligochaeta)
especially any of a family (Lumbricidae) of numerous widely distributed hermaphroditic worms that move through the soil by means of setae and feed on decaying organic matter

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

earthworm

noun

earth·worm

ˈərth-ˌwərm

a terrestrial annelid worm (class Oligochaeta)
especially any of a family (Lumbricidae) of numerous widely distributed hermaphroditic worms that move through the soil by means of setae and feed on decaying organic matter

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above