dog louse

noun

: either of two lice that infest dogs:
a
: a bird louse (Trichodectes canis)
b
: a sucking louse (Linognathus setosus)

Word History

First Known Use

1885, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dog louse was in 1885

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near dog louse

Cite this Entry

“Dog louse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dog%20louse. Accessed 24 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!