heartworm

American  

[hahrt-wurm] / ˈhɑrtˌwɜrm /

noun

1. a parasitic nematode, Dirofilaria immitis, transmitted by mosquito and invading the heart and pulmonary arteries of dogs, wolves, and foxes throughout its range in tropical, subtropical and, more recently, temperate regions around the world.

2. the disease caused by infection with heartworm.

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heartworm British  

/ ˈhɑːtˌwɜːm /

noun

1. a parasitic nematode worm, Dirofilaria immitis, that lives in the heart and bloodstream of vertebrates

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Etymology

Origin of heartworm

First recorded in 1885–90; heart + worm

Example Sentences

Heartworm can be fatal to dogs, so this resistance has raised deep concerns among veterinarians and dog owners.

From Nature • Mar. 28, 2017

Heartworm is spread by mosquitoes, but those mosquitoes - which used to be found only in certain regions - are now carrying the disease all over the United States.

From Washington Times • Feb. 3, 2016