Definition

A type of roundworm that lives in the windpipe of some birds and can cause breathing problems.

Example

The veterinarian diagnosed the bird with a gapeworm infection after observing its difficulty in breathing.

Conversation

Have you heard about the gapeworm that affects birds?

Yeah, I read that it can cause serious problems for them.

It's kind of scary how something so small can impact their health.

Definitely! We should keep an eye on our local birds to make sure they're okay.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Gapeworm → The word 'gapeworm' is formed from 'gape' (from Old English 'gapan', meaning to open wide) and 'worm' (from Old English 'wyrm', meaning serpent or worm). The term describes a type of parasitic worm that causes a wide opening of the throat in infected birds.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gape' meaning to open wide, which helps you remember that a gapeworm causes a wide opening in the throat of infected birds.

Visually Confused Words