Definition

A long, thin worm that lives in the intestines of humans and can cause health problems.

Example

The doctor diagnosed the patient with a whipworm infection after reviewing the test results.

Conversation

Did you hear about the whipworm infection going around?

No, I haven't! What is that exactly?

It's a type of parasite that can live in your intestines.

Wow, that sounds really unpleasant; I hope it doesn't spread too much!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Whipworm → The word is formed from 'whip' (from Old English 'hwippa', meaning a flexible instrument used for striking) and 'worm' (from Old English 'wyrm', meaning serpent or worm). The term 'whipworm' refers to a type of parasitic worm that has a whip-like shape.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'whip' as something that is flexible and long, and 'worm' as a creature that is slender and serpentine. This helps you remember that a whipworm is a long, whip-like parasitic worm.

Visually Confused Words