word
German
Earworm
lit. โear-wormโ
A song or jingle stuck in your head against your will.
Origin
A direct translation of the German Ohrwurm, used in German since at least the 19th century. English borrowed it in the mid-20th century. Researchers โ including James Kellaris and Vicky Williamson โ study earworms seriously and have catalogued the songs most prone to becoming them (lots of Lady Gaga, lots of children's TV themes).
Modern usage
Universal. Said with mild dread about a tune you can't shake. Also used metaphorically for any idea that sticks unbidden โ 'that pitch is an earworm.'
Tags
music
memory
german