How Do You Spell VERMINOUS?

Pronunciation: [vˈɜːmɪnəs] (IPA)

"Verminous" is a word used to describe something infested with vermin, or pests. The IPA phonetic transcription for "verminous" is /vɜːrmɪnəs/. The "v" sound is pronounced with teeth touching the bottom lip while the "ɜː" sound is a mid-central vowel sound. The "m" and "n" sounds are nasal consonants, while the "i" is pronounced as a short vowel sound. The "n" consonant sound is pronounced twice, and the final "əs" syllable is pronounced with a schwa sound.

VERMINOUS Meaning and Definition

  1. Verminous is an adjective that refers to something being infested or full of vermin. Vermin, in this context, typically encompasses various small, destructive or disease-carrying creatures that are commonly considered pests.

    When used to describe a place or object, such as a building or a piece of furniture, it suggests an environment or item that is heavily infested with pests, often implying a lack of cleanliness or neglect. For instance, a verminous house may be overrun by rodents or insects, which can cause damage and pose health risks.

    Additionally, verminous can describe a person who is infested with vermin, usually in reference to parasitic insects or mites that reside on or within the body. This usage can imply poor personal hygiene or living conditions.

    The term verminous can also be utilized metaphorically to describe a situation, behavior, or character that is deemed loathsome, contemptible, or morally repugnant. In this sense, it suggests a morally corrupt or despicable quality, comparable to how vermin is often associated with filth or decay.

    Overall, the adjective verminous relates to the presence of vermin, encompassing the notions of infestation, dirtiness, and potential harm. Its usage extends to descriptions of places, objects, individuals, and even abstract concepts, providing a negative connotation and emphasizing the idea of being tainted or corrupted.

  2. Relating to, caused by, or infested with worms, larvae, or vermin.

    A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for VERMINOUS

Etymology of VERMINOUS

The word "verminous" has its root in the Latin word "vermis", meaning "worm". In medieval Latin, the term "verminus" was used to describe small, harmful creatures such as worms, maggots, or any other small pests. Over time, the word evolved and was adapted into English as "vermin". "Verminous" is the adjectival form of "vermin" and refers to something being infested with or characterized by vermin.

Similar spelling words for VERMINOUS

Infographic

Add the infographic to your website: