Pronunciation: [nˈɪt] (IPA) 
The word "nit" is spelled as /nɪt/, consisting of a short vowel sound /ɪ/ followed by the sound of the consonant /t/. This sound is spelled with the letters "i" and "t" to indicate the specific sound combination. "Nit" refers to a small egg of a louse or similar parasitic insect. It is important to spell this word correctly to avoid confusion with words that are spelled differently but sound similar, such as "knight" or "gnat".
A nit refers to a small, egg-shaped insect, especially the egg of a louse or parasitic insect. Nits are commonly found on the hair or feathers of animals, including humans, and are typically attached to the shafts of the hair or feathers. These tiny insects are usually light brown or yellowish in color and have a hard outer shell. Nits are commonly associated with head lice, as they are the eggs laid by adult female lice on the hair shafts close to the scalp, providing a suitable environment for their growth and development.
The term "nit" is widely used to describe both the eggs of lice and the lice themselves in certain contexts. Often, the removal of nits is an essential step in combating lice infestations, as they are firmly attached to the hair and can be difficult to remove. Specialized combs or treatments are often employed to eradicate nits and lice. Nits are generally harmless but can cause itching and irritation if left untreated, and their presence may be indicative of a larger lice infestation.
In a broader sense, the term "nit" can also be used to refer to a small, insignificant creature or a person who is not particularly intelligent. This figurative usage is often colloquial and may vary depending on regional dialects and contexts.
The egg of a louse, usually attached to a hair.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The egg of a louse or other like insect.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "nit" comes from the Old English word "hnitu", which is also related to the Middle Dutch word "nitte" and the Old High German word "hnizza". These Old English and Germanic roots refer to a louse egg specifically. The broader meaning of "nit" to describe an egg or young insect is attributed to the Proto-Germanic word "*hnitiz", which has the same origin.
