Meaning & Definition
noun
A psychological disorder characterized by an appetite for substances that are largely non-nutritive, such as dirt, clay, or paper.
The child's pica led him to eat non-food items like chalk and paper.
A size of type in printing, equal to 12-point type, used especially in the setting of type for books.
The book was printed in pica, making it easy to read for the visually impaired.
Etymology
Derived from the Latin word 'pica', meaning 'magpie', a bird known for eating almost anything.
Common Phrases and Expressions
pica disorder:
a medical condition involving the ingestion of non-food items.
pica font:
a type of printing style using pica measurements.
Slang Meanings
In slang, 'pica' can refer to someone who has eccentric tastes or habits.
That fashionista is such a pica, always wearing the wildest outfits.