HEAD LOUSE Meaning and
Definition
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A head louse is a tiny parasitic insect that infests human scalps, specifically targeting the hair on the head. Scientifically known as Pediculus humanus capitis, these wingless insects are about the size of a sesame seed and possess six legs equipped with hooks that allow them to cling onto hair shafts. Head lice are translucent in color but can appear gray or brown when they feed on blood from the scalp, their main source of sustenance.
Head lice are highly contagious and spread by direct head-to-head contact or by sharing personal items such as combs, hats, or headphones, among others. They particularly thrive in crowded conditions where close interactions occur, such as school classrooms or households with multiple individuals. Contrary to popular belief, head lice infestations are not associated with poor hygiene habits or unclean environments.
The presence of head lice can cause intense itching and discomfort due to their bites and saliva. Common symptoms of a head lice infestation include an itchy scalp, particularly around the neck and ears, small red bumps on the scalp, and the presence of lice eggs or "nits" tightly attached to hair strands. Treatment options for head lice typically involve using over-the-counter or prescription-strength shampoos or lotions containing insecticides, as well as combing and removing nits with a special fine-toothed comb. It is essential to treat all individuals within a household simultaneously to prevent reinfestation. Regularly washing and drying clothes, bedding, and personal items at high temperatures is also crucial for eliminating lice.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEAD LOUSE
- gead louse
- bead louse
- nead louse
- jead louse
- uead louse
- yead louse
- hwad louse
- hsad louse
- hdad louse
- hrad louse
- h4ad louse
- h3ad louse
- hezd louse
- hesd louse
- hewd louse
- heqd louse
- heas louse
- heax louse
- heac louse
Etymology of HEAD LOUSE
The word "head louse" comes from the combination of two Old English words.
1. "Head" originated from the Old English word "heafod", which means "top part of the body" or "skull". This word can be traced back to Proto-Germanic and Indo-European roots.
2. "Louse" is derived from the Old English word "lus", which referred to a small, parasitic insect. This word has an ancient Germanic origin, related to the Old High German word "lus" and the Old Norse word "lus". Ultimately, it can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "lusaz" and the Proto-Indo-European word "lusos".
Therefore, the etymology of "head louse" reflects the combination of the Old English words "heafod" (head) and "lus" (louse).
Similar spelling words for HEAD LOUSE
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