vermifuge

noun

ver·​mi·​fuge ˈvər-mə-ˌfyüj How to pronounce vermifuge (audio)
: an agent that destroys or expels parasitic worms : anthelmintic

Examples of vermifuge in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Purslane, which the Cherokee used as a vermifuge because its scarlet stalks looked vaguely wormlike, is also a powerful antioxidant. Amanda Fortini, New York Times, 12 Nov. 2020 In my experience, an eight-day, mono-diet goat-milk cleanse — accompanied by a specific vermifuge made of anti-parasitic herbs — is the most successful treatment. Gabriella Paiella, The Cut, 24 Aug. 2017

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from New Latin vermifuga, vermifugus, from vermi- vermi- + -fuga, -fugus -fuge

First Known Use

1718, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of vermifuge was in 1718

Dictionary Entries Near vermifuge

Cite this Entry

“Vermifuge.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vermifuge. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

Medical Definition

vermifuge

noun
ver·​mi·​fuge ˈvər-mə-ˌfyüj How to pronounce vermifuge (audio)
: a vermifugal agent : anthelmintic
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!