Definition

An egg or young form of a parasitic insect, especially a louse, often found attached to hair or clothing.

Example

The mother checked her child's hair for nits after hearing about the lice outbreak at school.

Conversation

Did you see that documentary about lice?

Yeah, it was surprising how they showed a nit hatching.

I had no idea those little eggs were called nits.

Same here! It made me check my hair afterward.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

The word 'nit' originates from Old English 'hnitu', meaning a louse egg or the egg of an insect. It specifically refers to the egg of a parasitic insect, particularly lice.

Memory Tip

Think of the Old English word 'hnitu' which refers to the egg of a louse, helping you remember that 'nit' means an insect egg.

Visually Confused Words