jointworm

noun

joint·​worm ˈjȯint-ˌwərm How to pronounce jointworm (audio)
: the larva of any of several small chalcid wasps (genus Tetramesa synonym Harmolita) that attacks the stems of grain-producing plants (as wheat or barley) and causes swellings like galls at or just above the first joint

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of jointworm was in 1851

Dictionary Entries Near jointworm

joint wood berry

jointworm

join up

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Jointworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jointworm. Accessed 1 Dec. 2024.

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