vermin

Meanings

1. 1
   noun

   Any of various common types of small insects or other animals which cause harm and annoyance.

   The area was crawling with all sorts of vermin: fleas, lice, mice, and rats to name a few. Thus, we felt as if vermin were crawling over us.

2. 2
   noun

   An obnoxious or mean and offensive person.

   Bring these vermin to the Palace of Justice.

3. 3
   noun

   any of various small animals or insects that are pests

4. 4
   noun

   an irritating or obnoxious person

5. 5
   noun

   An animal that preys on game, such as a fox or a weasel.

Etymology

From Middle English vermyn, vermyne, from Old French vermine, from Vulgar Latin *verminum (“vermin”), collective noun formed from Latin vermis (“worm”). Compare vermiculate and vermivorous. See also worm.