Lice: meaning, definitions and examples

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lice

 

[ laษชs ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

parasitic insect

Lice are small, wingless insects that are ectoparasites, living on the skin of mammals and birds. They feed on the blood of their hosts and can cause itching and irritation. There are different types of lice, including head lice, body lice, and pubic lice.

Synonyms

insect, parasite.

Examples of usage

  • My daughter has head lice.
  • Lice can spread quickly in schools.
  • It's essential to treat lice infestations promptly.
  • Body lice are often associated with poor hygiene.

Translations

Translations of the word "lice" in other languages:

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡น lรกbio

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ เค—เคพเคฒ

๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Lippe

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ bibir

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ะณัƒะฑะฐ

๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ warga

๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต ๅ”‡

๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท lรจvre

๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ labio

๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท dudak

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท ์ž…์ˆ 

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ ุดูุงู‡

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ rty

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฐ pery

๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ณ ๅ˜ดๅ”‡

๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฎ ustnica

๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ธ var

๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ ะตั€ั–ะฝ

๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ช แƒ‘แƒ˜แƒ‘แƒ˜แƒšแƒ˜แƒ

๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ฟ dodaq

๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ labio

Etymology

The word 'lice' comes from Old English 'lic', which is related to other Germanic words that also refer to pests and parasites. Its roots can be traced back to Proto-Germanic '*leihwล', reflecting the concept of 'to stick' or 'to adhere', as lice cling tightly to their hosts. The evolution of the term through various languages showcases its longstanding presence in human society as a nuisance, particularly noted in many classic texts referencing hygiene and health issues associated with these parasites. Over centuries, lice have become emblematic of neglect or poor living conditions, and the study of these insects has contributed significantly to advancements in public health and hygiene awareness.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,585, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.