ground itch

noun

1. a disease of the skin of the feet, caused by penetration of hookworm larvae, characterized by a blisterlike eruption and itching.

Word History and Origins

Origin of ground itch¹

An Americanism dating back to 1815–25

Example Sentences

The hosts of these worms are not human and the larvae can only penetrate the upper five layers of the skin, where they give rise to intense, local itching, usually on the foot or lower leg, known as ground itch.

From Slate

It is small enough to burrow into human skin, causing a sensation known as ground itch.

From Fox News

It is their entrance through the skin that causes ground itch or dew itch.

From Project Gutenberg

In foul foot, or ground itch, of cattle, the inflammation of the skin and toes usually affects but one foot.

From Project Gutenberg

In foul foot or ground itch of cattle, the inflammation of the skin and toes is general and not in certain spots, as in foot-and-mouth disease.

From Project Gutenberg