Definition of vermin

The word "vermin" has its roots in Old French and Latin. It evolved from the Latin word "vermis," meaning "worm," which was used to describe small, wormlike animals like insects, reptiles, and amphibians. In the 14th century, the term "vermin" emerged in Middle English, initially referring to these small, unwanted creatures. Over time, the meaning of "vermin" expanded to include any animal considered pests or nuisances, such as rats, mice, and other small rodents. Today, the term is often used to describe any unwanted or depereased animal, even if it's not necessarily a "worm" in the classical sense. Despite its shift in meaning, the connection to the Latin "vermis" remains, tying the word to its origins in ancient Rome.