The plural of 'louse' is lice.
This word follows an irregular pluralization pattern common in the English language, stemming from its Old English roots, similar to how 'mouse' becomes 'mice' or 'goose' becomes 'geese'.
Understanding the Irregular Plural "Lice"
The word 'louse' refers to a small, parasitic insect that lives on animals and humans, feeding on blood. When referring to more than one of these creatures, the correct term is 'lice'. This plural form is a direct descendant of the Old English plural. According to the Collins English Dictionary, 'lice' is indeed the plural form of 'louse', clearly defining its meaning.
Types of Lice and Their Impact
Lice are common parasites that can affect various hosts, including humans. Understanding the different types can provide practical insight into their presence and management.
- Head Lice (Pediculus humanus capitis): These are tiny insects that live on the scalp, often found behind the ears and near the neckline. They are most common among school-aged children.
- Body Lice (Pediculus humanus humanus): Less common than head lice, body lice live in clothing and bedding and only move to the skin to feed. They are usually associated with poor hygiene and crowded living conditions.
- Pubic Lice (Pthirus pubis) (Crabs): These lice are typically found in the pubic area, but can also inhabit other coarse body hair, such as eyebrows, eyelashes, beard, mustache, armpit, or chest hair.
For more detailed information on preventing and treating these parasites, reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer comprehensive guides.
Examples of "Louse" and "Lice" in Sentences
- Louse (singular): "The veterinarian found a single louse on the dog's ear during the check-up."
- Lice (plural): "The school nurse sent a notice home because several children had lice."
- Lice (plural): "After camping, he discovered he had lice and immediately sought treatment."
Other Common Irregular Plurals
Many English words, particularly those of Germanic origin, do not form their plurals by simply adding '-s' or '-es'. Here are a few examples:
| Singular | Plural |
|---|---|
| Man | Men |
| Woman | Women |
| Foot | Feet |
| Tooth | Teeth |
| Goose | Geese |
| Mouse | Mice |
| Child | Children |
| Ox | Oxen |
Understanding these irregular patterns is key to mastering English grammar.
