BEGGAR LICE Meaning and
Definition
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Beggar lice, also known as sticktight or Spanish needle, is a common term used to describe the bur-like seeds or fruit of various plants belonging to the genus Bidens. It refers to a type of plant that produces small, hook-like barbs on its seeds or fruits that easily attach themselves to clothing, animal fur, or other objects passing by, ultimately dispersing the seeds to new locations.
The term "beggar lice" is derived from the fact that as these barbs cling tenaciously to their carriers, they resemble the way beggars might hold onto one's clothing while begging for money or food. This adhesive quality of the plant's seeds allows for their effective dispersal as they are transported to distant places by animals or humans.
The seeds of beggar lice are typically small, oblong-shaped, and spiny, with a flattened structure that facilitates easy attachment. They possess tiny hooked bristles or prickles that latch onto any passing object, making them difficult to remove without deliberate effort.
Due to their clingy nature, beggar lice seeds are often considered a nuisance, as they can cause significant inconvenience and irritation when they become entangled in clothing, hair, or animal fur. Additionally, they can become a challenge to remove from fabric or carpets, requiring physical extraction or the use of specialized tools.
Overall, "beggar lice" is a term used to describe the bur-like seeds of plants that readily attach themselves to other objects, aiding in the dispersal of the plant's seeds while sometimes causing annoyance to humans and animals.
Common Misspellings for BEGGAR LICE
- veggar lice
- neggar lice
- heggar lice
- geggar lice
- bwggar lice
- bsggar lice
- bdggar lice
- brggar lice
- b4ggar lice
- b3ggar lice
- befgar lice
- bevgar lice
- bebgar lice
- behgar lice
- beygar lice
- betgar lice
- begfar lice
- begvar lice
- begbar lice
Etymology of BEGGAR LICE
The word "beggar lice" is a compound word formed by combining "beggar" and "lice".
The term "beggar" originated from the Old English word "begger" which meant "a person who begs for alms". It further derives from the Middle English word "beggen" meaning "to beg". The word "beggar" is used to refer to someone who lives in poverty and relies on begging for survival.
On the other hand, "lice" is the plural form of "louse", which is a small, parasitic insect that infests mammals and birds.
When combined, "beggar lice" refers to a type of plant called "sticktight" or "bur marigold" (scientific name: Bidens frondosa).
Similar spelling word for BEGGAR LICE
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