vermin

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ver·min / ˈvərmən/ • n. [treated as pl.] wild mammals and birds that are believed to be harmful to crops, farm animals, or game, or that carry disease, e.g., foxes, rodents, and insect pests. ∎  parasitic worms or insects. ∎ fig. people perceived as despicable and as causing problems for the rest of society: the vermin who ransacked her house.DERIVATIVES: ver·min·ous / -mənəs/ adj.

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