vermin

Meanings

1. Any of various common types of small insects or other animals which cause harm and annoyance.
2. An animal that preys on game, such as a fox or a weasel.
3. An obnoxious or mean and offensive person.

Etymology

From Middle English vermyn, vermyne, from Old French vermine, from Vulgar Latin *verminum (“vermin”), collective noun formed from Latin vermis (“worm”). Compare vermiculate and vermivorous. See also worm.