head lice
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. Infestation of the scalp with lice: A condition where the human head louse (Pediculus humanus capitis) infests the hair and scalp, causing itching and discomfort. It refers specifically to the parasitic insects themselves when present on a person's head.
Usage
- Head lice is a plural noun. The singular form is "head louse."
- It typically refers to the insects causing the infestation.
- The term is commonly used in medical, educational, and parental contexts.
Examples
- The school nurse checks the children for head lice at the start of the term.
- An outbreak of head lice spread through the kindergarten class.
- Effective treatment is needed to eliminate head lice completely.
Advanced Usage
- "To have head lice": To be infested with head lice.
- Several students were sent home because they had head lice.
- "A case of head lice": An instance of infestation.
- The school reported a case of head lice in the second grade.
Variants and Related Words
- Louse (n, singular): The singular form of the insect.
- Pediculosis capitis (n): The medical term for head lice infestation.
- Nits (n): The eggs of head lice, which are attached to hair shafts.
Synonyms
- Cooties (n, informal): A childish term sometimes used for head lice or other imaginary germs.
Related Phrases
- Lice check (n): An inspection of a person's hair for lice or nits.
- The camp counselor performed a lice check on all new arrivals.
- Lice comb / Nit comb (n): A fine-toothed comb used to remove lice and nits from hair.
- Using a lice comb is an important part of the treatment process.
Noun
- infestation of the scalp with lice