Definition

A type of larva from certain beetles that is commonly found in grain products and is often used as food for birds and other animals.

Example

The bird enthusiast bought a box of mealworms to feed his pet birds.

Conversation

Have you ever tried a mealworm as a snack?

No, I haven't! Are they really edible?

Yeah, they're actually pretty nutritious and used in some protein bars.

That's interesting! I might give it a shot if I see them in the store.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Mealworm → The word is formed from "meal" (from Old English *melu*, meaning ground grain or flour) and "worm" (from Old English *wyrm*, meaning serpent or worm). A mealworm is a larval form of a darkling beetle that is often found in stored grain products, hence the name relating to grain and worm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'meal' as ground grain and 'worm' as a creature — a mealworm is a worm that is often found in meal or grain.

Visually Confused Words