fine-tooth comb

Definition

A comb with fine, closely spaced teeth, especially one used for removing head lice and their nits (eggs) from the hair; a nit comb.

Etymology

The noun is derived from fine (“particularly slender”) + tooth (“sharp projection”) + comb. The verb is derived from the noun.

Example Sentences

• "The practice of combing the heads of children too frequently with a fine tooth comb is a bad one, as the points of the teeth are quite sure to scratch and irritate the scalp, and are almost sure to produce scurf or dandruff."
• "'Member dat rainy eve dat I drove you out, Wid nothing but a fine tooth comb?"
• "The police went through his possessions with a fine-tooth comb."