hornworm

noun

horn·​worm ˈhȯrn-ˌwərm How to pronounce hornworm (audio)
: a hawk moth caterpillar having a hornlike tail process compare tomato hornworm

Examples of hornworm in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Scout for common pests like aphids (wash them off with the hose), spider mites, hornworms, and more. — Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 May 2026 Dill can also act as a trap crop, luring hornworms away from tomatoes. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 30 June 2026 Aphids, whiteflies and hornworms are among the most common pests attracted to tomato plants. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026 Every creature has its prey and predators and hornworms aren’t an exception. — Lauren David, Southern Living, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for hornworm

Word History

First Known Use

1676, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of hornworm was in 1676

Phrases Containing hornworm

Browse Nearby Words

hornweed
hornworm
hornwort
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Hornworm.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hornworm. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on hornworm

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about hornworm

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