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Earworm - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

An earworm is a catchy song or tune that repeatedly plays in one’s mind, often without conscious effort. It can be pleasant or annoying, but is hard to forget.

earworm

/ˈɪrˌwɜrm/ /ˈɪəˌwɜːm/

Definition:

A catchy song or tune that repeats persistently in one's mind.

Synonyms:

catchy tune, brainworm, sticky song

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

forgettable song, silence

Common Collocations:

catchy earworm, annoying earworm, persistent earworm, popular earworm, unwanted earworm

Derivatives:

earworms (plural), earwormy (adjective)

Usage Tips:

Use "earworm" to describe a song stuck in your head; avoid overusing it for non-musical repetition.

Common Phrases:

"get an earworm, " "stuck with an earworm, " "earworm of the day"

Etymology:

From German "Ohrwurm," literally meaning "ear worm," referring to music burrowing into the mind like a worm.

Examples:

  • 1. That pop song is such an earworm—I can’t stop humming it!
  • 2. She woke up with an annoying earworm from yesterday’s radio hit.
  • 3. Commercial jingles are often designed to be unforgettable earworms.
  • 4. Even after years, some melodies remain stubborn earworms in my memory.

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