worm

B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Computing Technical

n. a harmful computer program that copies itself to other computers over a network.

n. a self-replicating malware program that uses a computer network to send copies of itself to other nodes without human intervention.

“The office network slowed down significantly after a worm infected the main server.”

“Unlike a standard virus, a worm does not need to attach itself to an existing program to spread across a corporate infrastructure.”

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Informal

n. a person who you do not respect because they are weak or dishonest.

n. a contemptible, weak, or pitiable person; often used as a pejorative for someone perceived as spineless.

“He called his rival a worm for refusing to fight fairly.”

“In the play, the villain treats his subordinates like worms, showing no regard for their dignity or well-being.”

C2 · Proficiency Countable noun Technical

n. a short screw that fits into a larger wheel to help a machine move.

n. a mechanical screw that meshes with a gear wheel, typically used to transmit motion between non-intersecting shafts.

“The mechanic replaced the worn-out worm in the steering system.”

“The worm gear assembly allows for a high reduction ratio in a compact space, though it is less efficient than spur gearing.”

B2 · Upper Intermediate

v. to move your body along the ground or through a small space like a worm.

v. to move with a crawling or sinuous motion; to progress by wiggling or twisting the body.

“The soldier had to worm his way through the narrow tunnel to reach the other side.”

“The explorer managed to worm through the narrow crevice in the rock face, eventually emerging into a hidden cavern.”

C2 · Proficiency Informal

v. to get information from someone who does not want to tell you.

v. to extract information from a reluctant source through persistent questioning or artful persuasion.

“It took hours, but she finally wormed the secret out of him.”

“The journalist spent weeks interviewing former employees, eventually worming the truth about the company's finances out of a retired accountant.”