vermin

[ vur-min ]

noun

, plural ver·min.

1. noxious, objectionable, or disgusting animals collectively, especially those of small size that appear commonly and are difficult to control, as flies, lice, bedbugs, cockroaches, mice, and rats.
2. an objectionable or obnoxious person, or such persons collectively.
3. animals that prey upon game, as coyotes or weasels.

vermin

/ ˈvɜːmɪn /

noun

1. functioning as plural small animals collectively, esp insects and rodents, that are troublesome to man, domestic animals, etc
2. -min an unpleasant, obnoxious, or dangerous person

Word History and Origins

Origin of vermin¹

1300–50; Middle English vermyne < Anglo-French, Middle French vermin, vermine < Vulgar Latin *verminum, *vermina, based on Latin vermin-; verminate

Word History and Origins

Origin of vermin¹

C13: from Old French vermine, from Latin vermis a worm

Example Sentences

Historically, particularly on the US East Coast, American-dwelling crows were shot as vermin.

From MIT Technology Review

Added to this revolting scope was the danger of other vermin, including cockroaches, fleas, and lice.

From Realm of History

According to them, we can get sick with leftover food, which also attracts all kinds of vermin that feed on food debris.

From Washington Blade

Without the beeps and whirs of a cellphone, you can use your ears to detect crickets, mice, or other vermin in your home.

From The Daily Beast

The RIP offers a clear window into the intersection of poverty and vermin.

From The Daily Beast

“They kept the apartment filthy and they had vermin problems,” the neighbor says.

From The Daily Beast

Sandy may actually help the vermin spread diseases, as a matter of fact.

From The Daily Beast

If you thought Frankenstorm would rid Gotham of its vermin, think again.

From The Daily Beast

Others speak of vermin, noxious plants, or instances of uncleanliness.

From Project Gutenberg

The inhabitants were cowering upon the floor, playing with the children, or assisting one another to get rid of their vermin.

From Project Gutenberg

Athenæus assures us that he was carried, like a bird, in an iron cage until he was devoured by vermin.

From Project Gutenberg

Every instinct and habit made her a stranger among these poor swamp-people living like vermin in their lair.

From Project Gutenberg

Arrangements should be made for keeping the area clear of vermin and for ventilating and draining it.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• ant
• flea
• insect
• mosquito
• rodent