Definition

Noun: - A parasitic worm-like arthropod characterized by having two pairs of hooks at the sides of the mouth; it infects the nasal sinuses of mammals.

Usage

The term "tongue worm" is a common name used in zoology and parasitology to refer to a specific type of endoparasite. It is typically used in scientific or veterinary contexts.

Examples

• The veterinarian identified the cause of the infection as a tongue worm.
• Tongue worms have a complex life cycle often involving multiple hosts.
• The study focused on the morphology of the tongue worm.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in the compound form "tongue worm infection" to describe the disease state.
  • The dog was treated for a severe tongue worm infection.

Variants and Related Words

• Pentastomid: This is the more precise scientific name for the group of parasites commonly called tongue worms.
  • Pentastomids are also known as tongue worms.

Synonyms

• Pentastomid (scientific synonym)
• Linguatulid (another scientific term for members of this group)

Notes on Meaning

• The name "tongue worm" is derived from the parasite's tongue-like shape. It is important to note that despite the name containing "worm," these organisms are not true worms but are classified as arthropods.

Noun

1. wormlike arthropod having two pairs of hooks at the sides of the mouth; parasitic in nasal sinuses of mammals