# vermin

/ˈvɝmɪn/ (US) · /vˈɜːmɪn/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/vermin
Updated: 2026-05-18

## Definition

animals that are considered pests or nuisances, like rats or mice. It is also a very rude word for people who are seen as dirty or useless.

For teachers: animals that are regarded as pests or nuisances, particularly small rodents. In a derogatory sense, it refers to people who are considered contemptible or socially undesirable.

## Examples

- The kitchen was full of vermin after the trash was left out.
- The city spent thousands of dollars on traps to eliminate the vermin that were damaging the local crops.

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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.