cootie

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

Probably from Malay kutu (“flea, louse”) (and/or Tagalog/Māori). First attested in English in 1917 as British army slang during World War I.

"Mrs. Dr. dear," whispered Susan solemnly, "what are cooties?" — Rilla of Ingleside, L. M. (Lucy Maud) Montgomery
He'd get cooties, or rheumatism, or a sunstroke, or a knife between his ribs some fine night--and then where'd I be? — The Prairie Mother, Arthur Stringer
Kennicott was respectful as he inquired whether the Germans had good aeroplanes, and what a salient was, and a cootie, and Going West. — Main Street, Sinclair Lewis

body louse, Pediculus corporis

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