COOTIE Meaning and
Definition
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Cootie, noun:
1. A colloquial term primarily used among children to refer to an imaginary or mythical insect or parasite, believed to be responsible for the transmission of various contagious illnesses. Cooties are often described as small, winged creatures that infest individuals upon contact, usually leading to embarrassment or social exclusion. It is commonly used as a playful or teasing term, often associated with the opposite sex.
2. The term "cootie" is also used to describe lice infestation, particularly in the context of head lice. In this sense, it refers to the tiny parasitic insects that dwell on the hair or scalp and feed on human blood. "Cootie" is typically used in a light-hearted or childish manner to convey an uncomfortable or unpleasant feeling associated with having head lice.
3. Additionally, "cootie" can also be used metaphorically to describe a person who is deemed undesirable or repulsive, particularly in a romantic or sexual context. In this usage, it implies that the person carries an untreatable or incurable condition that makes them unattractive to others. This meaning is often encountered in informal or slang conversation, emphasizing a sense of humor or irony.
Overall, "cootie" encompasses various connotations ranging from a fictional insect to real parasitic insects and metaphorical implications related to undesirable or unpleasant qualities.
Common Misspellings for COOTIE
Etymology of COOTIE
The term "cootie" originated as slang within the English language, specifically in American English. Its etymology can be traced back to the early 20th century, during World War I. The exact origin of the word is uncertain and speculative, but there are a few theories.
One theory suggests that "cootie" is derived from the Malay word "kutu", which means "lice". This theory suggests that American soldiers serving in the Philippines during the Spanish-American War and the subsequent Philippine-American War carried the term back with them.
Another theory proposes that "cootie" came from the word "crawly", which meant something repulsive or scary. This theory suggests that "cootie" originated from the idea that lice or bugs crawl around, thus creating an association with something unwanted or unpleasant.
Similar spelling words for COOTIE
- cote,
- Cotta,
- coot,
- coutee,
- coati,
- coto,
- Coty,
- bootie,
- couth,
- cowed,
- coat,
- Coit,
- COTA,
- couthie,
- couthy,
- coutu,
- Couto,
- coate,
- code,
- co-ed,
- cute,
- cookie,
- coyote,
- cot,
- coatee,
- cotto,
- Codi.
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