Nematode (noun)

Any of various parasitic or free-living worm-like animals of the phylum Nematoda, having a long, slender cylindrical body with a tough outer layer and found in soil, water, or plant tissues.

Origin:

From greek nematos "thread" + -oides, after their long, thin shape.

Examples:

1. Some nematodes are serious agricultural pests, causing damage to crops.
2. The soil was found to contain a high number of nematodes.
3. Nematodes are common in freshwater and marine environments.
4. Certain nematodes have been shown to have medicinal benefits.
5. Nematodes play an important role in the food chain as both predators and prey.