Helminthic
/hɛlˈmɪnθɪk/noun
Relating to helminths, parasitic worms such as tapeworms, roundworms, and flukes.
Did you know?Ancient Greek physicians grouped intestinal parasites under words derived from helmins, “worm,” a classification that eventually shaped modern parasitology.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*wr̥mis
“Worm; a creeping or twisting creature”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἕλμινς (helmins), ἕλμινθος (helminthos)
“Worm, especially an intestinal or parasitic worm”
Ancient Greek
Greek
ἑλμινθο- (helmintho-)
“Combining form meaning “worm” or “parasitic worm””
19th Century
Scientific English
helminth
“A parasitic worm, especially one studied in zoology or medicine”
19th Century
English
helminthic
“Relating to helminths or worm parasites”
Modern English
English
helminthic
“Of, relating to, or caused by parasitic worms”
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