Added 10 October 2026
vermin
/ˈvɜːmɪn/ noun
In Latin: blatta Wiktionary
noun Definition from Wiktionary (CC BY-SA). Pronunciation from Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org. More about vermin at Wordnik → Where our words come from →
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Any of various common types of small insects or other animals which cause harm and annoyance. .mw-parser-output .defdate{font-size:smaller}
The area was crawling with all sorts of vermin: fleas, lice, mice, and rats to name a few. Thus, we felt as if vermin were crawling over us.
- An animal that preys on game, such as a fox or a weasel.
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An obnoxious or mean and offensive person.
Bring these vermin to the Palace of Justice.
Origin
From Middle English vermyn, vermyne, from Old French vermine, from Vulgar Latin *verminum (“vermin”), collective noun formed from Latin vermis (“worm”). Compare vermiculate and vermivorous. See also worm.
From Wiktionary, via Kaikki.org (CC BY-SA)