ˈworm-ˌeater
1. A bird or other creature that feeds on worms; spec. the Worm-eating Warbler (see below).
| 1760 G. Edwards Glean. Nat. Hist. II. 200 The Worm-eater [of Pennsylvania]. 1831 Swainson & Richardson Fauna Bor.-Amer. II. 221 Sylvicola (Vermivora) peregrina... Tennessee Worm-eater. 1878 J. Buller New Zealand i. v. 39 A desperate gang headed by a chief called ‘Kaitoke’ (worm-eater). |
2. [f. worm-eaten.] (See quots.)
| 1890 Boston (Mass.) Jrnl. 22 Apr. 2/3 A man..gave his occupation as that of a worm-eater... He said he was employed by a furniture manufacturer to fire shot at furniture so as to give it a worm-eaten appearance. 1900 Daily Mail 31 Oct., Worm-eaters..assist the makers of spurious oak furniture to deceive the public by drilling worm holes into the wood so as to give it an ancient appearance. |