Cootie Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐ฆ
cootie
[หkuหti ]
Definition
slang term
A cootie is a term used to refer to imaginary germs or lice that children often believe can be transmitted through close contact or from the opposite sex. The word is commonly used in a playful or derogatory manner among children.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Ew, stay away from her! She has cooties!
- Boys have cooties, I can't play with them.
- Don't let them touch you, or you'll get cooties!
Translations
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Origin of 'cootie'
The term 'cootie' originated during World War I as a slang term for lice, particularly in relation to the lice that infested soldiers in the trenches. Soldiers began using the word in a humorous context to describe the discomfort and irritation caused by lice. This usage soon spread, and by the 1920s, it had entered popular culture, especially among children who used it to refer to any kind of germs or imaginary bugs during playground games. Cooties were often associated with the idea of being 'infected' by close contact with someone of the opposite gender, and it has remained a part of children's language and games ever since. The playful notion of cooties reflects childhood fears and social dynamics around germs and cleanliness.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #41,888, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.