IPA pronunciation: 'ku ti (Koo tea)
Noun Plural: cooties ('ku tiz); alternate spelling: cooty
Originally coined in 1917, this was a British military slang term used during World War I for a body louse (the singular of body lice). This term came from the Malay word "kutu" which was used for parasitic insects that drink blood for nourishment.
In modern times this term is typically used by young boys to tease girls, though many who use it have no idea what it means or where it came from. Some even erroneously believe it's a type of STD.
Noun Plural: cooties ('ku tiz); alternate spelling: cooty
Originally coined in 1917, this was a British military slang term used during World War I for a body louse (the singular of body lice). This term came from the Malay word "kutu" which was used for parasitic insects that drink blood for nourishment.
In modern times this term is typically used by young boys to tease girls, though many who use it have no idea what it means or where it came from. Some even erroneously believe it's a type of STD.
"Aye, Timothy caught cooties on the battle field. He needs medical, ASAP."
"Stay away from me, you're gross! You have cooties!"
"Stay away from me, you're gross! You have cooties!"
by Red Will B May 10, 2022
by Buckingbancon June 24, 2010
Cooties is a highly infectious disease, common between the ages of 5 and 12, which happens through the contact of saliva, generally by the mouth. Symptoms include a rash near or on the face, and sometimes even severe cases of toes dropping off.
by Cootieluver33 August 30, 2015
1. real or imagined lice
2. an imaginary problem that little kids use as an excuse not to touch or go near someone.
2. an imaginary problem that little kids use as an excuse not to touch or go near someone.
by Light Joker December 04, 2004
by Heptune May 11, 2005
by dippleknot August 06, 2007