COMMON LOUSE Meaning and
Definition
-
The common louse, scientifically referred to as Pediculus humanus capitis, is a small parasitic insect belonging to the order Phthiraptera. It is specifically adapted to infest the human scalp and is widely known for causing a condition called head lice.
Common lice are wingless insects that measure about 2-4 millimeters in length and have six legs equipped with sharp claws. They have developed specialized mouthparts for piercing the human scalp and sucking blood, which is their primary source of nutrition. These insects survive by attaching their eggs, commonly known as nits, to individual hair strands close to the scalp.
The infestation of common lice, commonly known as head lice, is a contagious condition. It spreads through close physical contact or sharing personal belongings like combs, hats, or pillows. Symptoms of head lice infestation include persistent itching on the scalp, nits visible on hair strands, and the presence of live lice.
Treatment of common lice typically involves the use of specialized shampoos or lotions containing insecticides or natural remedies designed to kill the insects and remove the nits. Combing the hair with a fine-toothed comb to remove lice and nits is also an essential part of the treatment process.
While common lice infestations can be a nuisance and cause discomfort, they are not known to transmit diseases. However, they can lead to secondary infections due to excessive scratching. Preventive measures such as proper hygiene, regular washing of personal items, and avoiding close contact with infested individuals can help minimize the risk of common louse infestations.
Common Misspellings for COMMON LOUSE
- xommon louse
- vommon louse
- fommon louse
- dommon louse
- cimmon louse
- ckmmon louse
- clmmon louse
- cpmmon louse
- c0mmon louse
- c9mmon louse
- conmon louse
- cokmon louse
- cojmon louse
- comnon louse
- comkon louse
- comjon louse
- commin louse
- commkn louse
- commln louse
Etymology of COMMON LOUSE
The word "common louse" can be broken down into two parts: "common" and "louse".
The term "common" originated from the Latin word "communis", which means "belonging to or shared by all". It later entered Old French as "comun", and then Middle English as "common". In the context of "common louse", the word suggests that it is a louse species that is widespread or frequently encountered.
The term "louse" comes from the Old English word "lus", which is also related to the Old High German word "lus" and Old Norse word "lus". This word has Indo-European roots and signifies a small, parasitic insect that infests clothing or hair and feeds on blood. The word "louse" has been used to describe various species of these bloodsucking insects throughout history.
Similar spelling words for COMMON LOUSE
- common lettuce,
- common limpet,
- commonweal,
- common laburnum,
- common alder,
- common eland,
- common eel,
- common land,
- common lilac,
- common mallow,
- less common,
- communalise,
- communalize,
- common mullein,
- commonwealth,
- common elder,
- common lynx,
- common law.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
