# worm turns

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/worm-turns
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

Circumstances change so that a previously disadvantaged party gains the advantage, or vice-versa.

## Examples

- The worm turns when the underdog finally wins the game.
- After years of being bullied by his boss, he finally spoke up and quit, showing that the worm turns eventually.
- History often demonstrates that the worm turns, as those who once held absolute power find themselves subject to the very laws they previously ignored.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.