Definition

To remove lice from a person or an animal using physical methods or chemicals.

Example

The veterinarian had to delouse the dog before it could be adopted.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I heard that your dog had lice, did you manage to delouse him?

Yeah, I took him to the vet, and they helped me out.

That’s a relief! I didn’t know how to delouse a pet myself.

It’s pretty straightforward with the right treatment, thankfully.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Delouse → It is formed from "de-" (meaning removal or reversal) and "louse" (from Old English "lus", meaning a parasitic insect). The word "delouse" means to remove lice from someone or something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'removing' ('de-') 'lice' ('louse') — that's why delouse means to get rid of lice.

Visually Confused Words