Definition

A small insect larva that lives in wood and creates holes as it eats through it.

Example

The old furniture was damaged by woodworm, leaving many tiny holes in the wood.

Conversation

Did you hear about the furniture we have to replace in the living room?

Yeah, I noticed some damage; what happened?

I think there might be a woodworm infestation in one of the chairs.

Oh no! We should get that checked out before it spreads.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Woodworm is formed from "wood" (from Old English *wudu*, meaning the material derived from trees) and "worm" (from Old English *wyrm*, meaning a serpent or a small creature). The term refers to a small creature that infests and damages wood, resembling a worm.

Memory Tip

Think of 'wood' as the material from trees and 'worm' as a small creature that can damage it — that's why woodworm refers to a creature that infests wood.

Visually Confused Words