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Glite Dictionary
Pediculus corporis

Pediculus corporis

9.9
A small insect called the body louse that lives on people's bodies and causes strong itching
  • noun
  • /pəˈdɪkjələs ˈkɔːrpərɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : piojo corporal
  • Infestation with Pediculus corporis can lead to intense itching and skin irritation.

Examples

  • The spread of Pediculus corporis is commonly associated with overcrowded living conditions.

  • Treatment for an infestation of Pediculus corporis often includes the use of special shampoos and hygiene measures.

  • Doctors identified the source of the rash as an allergic reaction to bites from Pediculus corporis.

  • The presence of Pediculus corporis can lead to severe itching.

  • Many people are unaware of Pediculus corporis and its effects.

  • Infestation with Pediculus corporis can cause significant discomfort due to persistent itching and skin irritation.

  • In cases of crowded conditions, the likelihood of encountering Pediculus corporis increases significantly.

Synonyms

body louse
vsPediculus corporis
  • Specialized
8.7

A small insect that lives in clothing, bites people, and can spread disease

is the scientific name for that same parasite species
Pediculus humanus
vsPediculus corporis
  • Specialized
9.8

A small insect that lives on people's hair or clothing and feeds on blood

is restricted to body infestations rather than head ones

Surface Forms

Pediculus corporis singular
Pediculus corporis plural

Morphology

Pediculus + corporis

The phrase is a literal taxonomic binomial: 'Pediculus' denotes a louse genus and 'corporis' is the Latin genitive of 'body', so the meaning ('body louse') is compositionally derivable. However, the use of Latin morphology and specialized scientific register makes this less immediately accessible to an average B1 learner who may not recognize the genitive form or the Latin terms, so it is only partially transparent.

Etymology

The scientific name Pediculus corporis comes from Latin and literally means 'louse of the body'. Pediculus is 'louse' and corporis is from 'body', so the name simply describes the small parasite that lives on the human body.