— hookwormy , adj.
/hook"werrm'/ , n.
1. any of certain bloodsucking nematode worms, as Ancylostoma duodenale and Necator americanus, parasitic in the intestine of humans and other animals.
2. Also called hookworm disease . a disease caused by hookworms, which may enter the body by ingestion or through the skin of the feet or legs, causing abdominal pain, nausea, and, if untreated, severe anemia.
[ 1900-05; HOOK 1 + WORM ]