dust mite

[ duhst mahyt ]

noun

1. any of various mites, especially Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus and D. farinae, that ingest shed skin cells and may cause allergic reactions.

dust mite

noun

1. either of two mites, Dermatophagoides farinae or D. pteronyssinus , that feed on shed human skill cells. Their excrement is a household allergen associated with respiratory allergies and asthma

Word History and Origins

Origin of dust mite¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

First, Fassett removed the IL-31 gene from mice and exposed them to the house dust mite, a common, itchy allergen.

From Science Daily

"As we expected, the dust mite didn't cause itching in the absence of IL-31, but we were surprised to see that inflammation went up."

From Science Daily

Three tablets treat grass or ragweed allergies, and a fourth gained approval in 2017 for dust mite allergies.

From Salon

“Household dust is a complex matrix of components including dust mites, dust mite feces, bacteria, mold, pet dander, small insects, pollen and particles,” Ketan Patel, design manager of floor care at Dyson, told Better Homes & Gardens.

From Seattle Times

“Dust mite droppings, dead bodies of dust mites, pet dander, and small insects are included as allergens.”

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• antigen
• dander
• irritant
• pollen
• ragweed