pedicular, a.
(pɪˈdɪkjʊlə(r))
[ad. L. pedīculār-is, f. pedīcul-us louse. Cf. F. pédiculaire.]
Of or pertaining to a louse or lice; lousy.
| 1660 Howell Parly of Beasts 26, I am not subject to breed Lice and other Vermin; And whereas this pedicular disease [etc.] attend Mankind. 1727–41 Chambers Cycl. s.v. Pedicularis morbus, Herod is said to have died of the pedicular disease. a 1843 Southey Doctor ccxii. (1848) 573 The souls of their friends who are undergoing penance in the shape of fleas, or in loathsome pedicular form. 1876 J. S. Bristowe Th. & Pract. Med. (1878) 343 Impetigo in children limited to the back of the head is often of pedicular origin. |
Hence pedicuˈlarity (nonce-wd.), the nature or personality of a louse.
| 1876 Ruskin Fors Clav. lxvi. 183 Is there..a Divine Pedicularity? |