pica

Definition

A disorder characterized by appetite and craving for non-edible substances, such as chalk, clay, dirt, ice, or sand.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin pīca (“jay; magpie”). Doublet of pie (“magpie”). * (pathology): From the idea that magpies will eat almost anything.

Example Sentences

• "The three most common nonfood picas were eating of strings and rags; feces, vomit, and urine; and paper, cigarettes, and soil."