Synonyms for

Lice

Verb / laɪs / Another word for lice — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Lice are small, wingless insects that live on the skin of mammals and feed on their blood.

Synonyms & similar words

insect louse dirtball birdlouse plantlouse suckinglouse bitinglouse worm nits parasites vermin bugs insects pests cooties critters beasts fangs worms maggots mites ticks fleas pediculosis scabies

Synonyms by register

Formal

pediculosis infestation

Informal

cooties

Common collocations

  • head lice
  • body lice
  • pubic lice
  • lice comb
  • lice treatment
  • get rid of lice
  • lice infestation

Word family

noun louse

Usage note

Lice refers to small parasitic insects that live on the skin of mammals and birds. The singular form is 'louse'.

Example sentences

  1. I have lice in my hair and need to use a special shampoo to get rid of them.
  2. Lice are very contagious and can be spread through close contact with an infected person.
  3. My dog has lice and I need to take him to the vet to get treated.
  4. The school sent a letter home warning parents about a lice outbreak.
  5. I'm so itchy, I think I might have lice!

Quotes

  • "Kill them all!" he said, holding up his arms, and the lice fell from his hair onto his shoulders like rain. - Neil Gaiman
  • "Lice and cockroaches and rats and mice!" said Bilbo. - J.R.R. Tolkien
  • I never eat in restaurants. I just don't trust people. I've had lice before. - Amy Sedaris

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