n.
Pronunciation: ' hu ̇ k- ˌ w ə rm
Function: noun
Date: 1902
1 : any of several parasitic nematode worms (family Ancylostomatidae) that have strong buccal hooks or plates for attaching to the host's intestinal lining and that include serious bloodsucking pests
2 : infestation with or disease caused by hookworms especially : a lethargic anemic state in humans due to blood loss from hookworms feeding in the small intestine