expression, noun
roundworm; intestinal worm
Literal meaning: parasitic worm in the belly. Used in old medical or folk contexts; modern term is 回虫 (かいちゅう).
昔は腹の虫を取るために薬草が使われた。
In the past, herbs were used to expel intestinal worms.
expression, noun
Figurative use: the 'worm in one's belly' that stirs up anger or discontent. Common in the set phrase 腹の虫が治まらない (cannot contain one's anger).
See also: 腹の虫が治まらない
彼の失礼な態度に腹の虫が治まらなかった。
I couldn't contain my anger at his rude attitude.
expression, noun
stomach growling; hunger pangs
Figurative use: the 'worm' that makes one's stomach rumble. Often used in the phrase 腹の虫が鳴る (one's stomach growls).
See also: 腹の虫が鳴る
昼食を抜いたら、午後になって腹の虫が鳴り始めた。
After skipping lunch, my stomach started growling in the afternoon.