n. & v.
--n.
1. (pl. lice) a a parasitic insect, Pediculus humanus, infesting the human hair and skin and transmitting various diseases. b any insect of the order Anoplura or Mallophaga parasitic on mammals, birds, fish, or plants.
2 sl. (pl. louses) a contemptible or unpleasant person.
--v.tr. remove lice from.
Phrases and idioms:
louse up sl. make a mess of.
Etymology: OE lus, pl. lys