Tick

Pronunciation: /tik/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Tick

Plural: Ticks

Definition

Small arachnids from the order Ixodida, primarily known as ectoparasites that live by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, and sometimes reptiles and amphibians.

Etymology

Middle English 'tekke', from Old English 'ticia', possibly of Germanic origin; related to Dutch 'teek' and German 'Zecke'.

Example

Ticks can transmit several serious diseases to humans, including Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.

Synonyms

Bloodsucker
Ectoparasite

Related Terms

Ixodida
Parasitism
Lyme disease
Arachnid

Usage Notes

Ticks undergo four life stages: egg, larva, nymph, and adult. They are known vectors for various pathogens affecting animal and human health.