blindworm: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowLiterary, Archaic, Regional, Zoological
Quick answer
What does “blindworm” mean?
A small, legless lizard (Anguis fragilis), also known as a slowworm, often mistaken for a snake.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A small, legless lizard (Anguis fragilis), also known as a slowworm, often mistaken for a snake.
A term used in folklore and older texts for the slowworm, sometimes erroneously thought to be blind or venomous.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is virtually obsolete in American English. In British English, it survives in regional dialects, older literature, and natural history contexts.
Connotations
In British English, it carries rustic, folkloric, or archaic connotations. In American English, it is essentially unknown.
Frequency
Extremely rare in contemporary American English. Very low frequency in modern British English, primarily found in historical or poetic contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “blindworm” in a Sentence
The [ADJECTIVE] blindworm [VERBed].Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in zoology, herpetology, or historical texts discussing European fauna or folklore.
Everyday
Rare. Might be used by gardeners or naturalists in the UK.
Technical
A common name for Anguis fragilis in taxonomic or field guides.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “blindworm”
- Using it to refer to an actual worm or a snake.
- Assuming the creature is blind or dangerous.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the blindworm (slowworm) is completely harmless to humans.
The name is an old folk misnomer, likely referring to its small, sometimes inconspicuous eyes or its burrowing habits.
It is considered archaic. 'Slowworm' is the standard modern term, except in historical or poetic contexts.
They are native to much of Europe and parts of Western Asia, living in grasslands, woodlands, and gardens.
A small, legless lizard (Anguis fragilis), also known as a slowworm, often mistaken for a snake.
Blindworm is usually literary, archaic, regional, zoological in register.
Blindworm: in British English it is pronounced /ˈblaɪnd.wɜːm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈblaɪnd.wɝːm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “As blind as a blindworm (archaic)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: A 'worm' that is 'blind' to the fact it's actually a lizard.
Conceptual Metaphor
MISTAKEN IDENTITY (a harmless creature with a fearsome or deficient name).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'blindworm'?