brainworm
A neurotropic nematode parasiteA neurotropic nematode parasite (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis).
Meaning
4 sensesA neurotropic nematode parasite (Parelaphostrongylus tenuis).
Any parasitic, worm-like species that inhabits the brain of another organism, typically altering its behaviour or giving it special abilities.
(figuratively, informal)A song or melody that keeps playing inside of one's mind.
(derogatory, figuratively, slang, sometimes)A persistent delusion or obsession; a deeply-ingrained or unquestioned idea.
Origin
From brain + worm.From brain + worm.
Wiktionary, CC BY-SA 4.0 · source
Dictionary text adapted from Wiktionary (Wiktionary contributors, CC BY-SA 4.0) and Open English WordNet / Princeton WordNet (CC BY 4.0, WordNet License); shared under CC BY-SA 4.0. Example sentences and recordings are credited where they appear.