angleworm
|an-gle-worm|
B2
🇺🇸
/ˈæŋɡəlˌwɜrm/
🇬🇧
/ˈæŋɡəlˌwɜːm/
earthworm used as fishing bait
Etymology
Etymology Information
'angleworm' originates from English, specifically from the word 'angle' meaning 'fishhook' and 'worm' meaning 'earthworm'. The term refers to worms used for angling (fishing).
Historical Evolution
'Angleworm' was formed in the 19th century in American English by combining 'angle' (as in fishing) and 'worm', and it became the standard term for earthworms used as bait.
Meaning Changes
Initially, it specifically referred to worms used for fishing bait, but now it is also used more generally for earthworms in some regions.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a common earthworm, especially one used as bait in fishing.
The fisherman dug up an angleworm to use as bait.
Synonyms
Last updated: 2025/08/08 21:36