any of several parasitic nematode worms (family Ancylostomatidae) that have strong buccal hooks or plates for attaching to the host's intestinal lining and that include serious bloodsucking pests
hookworms
noun(hook-worm)
infestation with or disease caused by hookworms; especially : a lethargic anemic state in humans due to blood loss from hookworms feeding in the small intestine