Meaning & Definition of word "Louse"
to
Louse
/laʊs/
noun:
- 1. A small, wingless, parasitic insect that feeds on the blood of mammals and birds.
- Example: The child was treated for head lice, as the school had reported an outbreak.
- 2. A contemptible or unpleasant person.
- Example: He’s such a louse for cheating his friends out of their money.
Etymology
Old English 'lūs'; related to similar words in other Germanic languages.
Common Phrases and Expressions
louse up:
To ruin or mess something up.
no louse left behind:
A humorous expression implying that everyone, even the least important or dirty, will be accounted for.
Related Words
lice:
Plural of louse, refers to the parasitic insects that infest humans.
nits:
The eggs or young forms of lice.
ectoparasite:
An organism that lives on the exterior of another organism, feeding off it.
Slang Meanings of louse
Meaning: A despicable person or behavior.
Example Sentence: He cheated his friends; what a louse!
Meaning: Someone insignificant or of no consequence.
Example Sentence: Don't listen to that louse, he doesn’t know what he’s talking about.