worm
n. · v.-
1 computing (n.) B2 Upper Intermediate Computinga harmful computer program that copies itself and spreads through a network.
a self-replicating malware program that uses a computer network to send copies of itself to other nodes, often without human intervention.
ExampleThe office network slowed down because a worm was spreading through the emails.
ExampleThe security team identified a sophisticated worm that exploited a vulnerability in the server's operating system to bypass the firewall.
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2 a person (n.) C1 Advanced Informala person who is weak or dishonest and does not deserve respect.
a contemptible, weak, or untrustworthy person. Informal and derogatory in register.
ExampleHe was such a worm that he blamed his own mistake on his assistant.
ExampleThe antagonist was portrayed as a snivelling worm who would betray his closest allies to save his own skin.
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3 to move like a worm (v.) B2 Upper Intermediateto move your body along the ground or through a small space.
to move with a crawling or sinuous motion, often by dragging the body along a surface.
ExampleThe soldier had to worm his way through the narrow tunnel to reach the other side.
ExampleThe explorer managed to worm through the tight crevice in the rock face, eventually emerging into a hidden cavern.
- crawl
- wriggle
- slither
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4 to get information (v.) C1 Advanced Informalto get information from someone who does not want to tell you.
to elicit information from a reluctant source through persistent questioning or artful persuasion. Often used in the phrase 'worm something out of someone'.
ExampleIt took hours, but she finally managed to worm the secret out of him.
ExampleThe journalist spent weeks building rapport with the whistleblower, eventually worming the location of the documents out of him.