fine-tooth comb

== English == === Etymology === The noun is derived from fine (“particularly slender”) +‎ tooth (“sharp projection”) +‎ comb. The verb is derived from the noun. === Pronunciation === (Received Pronunciation) IPA(key): /ˌfaɪntuːθ ˈkəʊm/ (General American) IPA(key): /ˌfaɪnˌtuθ ˈkoʊm/ Rhymes: -əʊm === Noun === fine-tooth comb (plural fine-tooth combs) A comb with fine, closely spaced teeth, especially one used for removing head lice and their nits (eggs) from the hair; a nit comb. Synonym: toothcomb (figuratively) A means of making a thorough search. Synonym: toothcomb ==== Usage notes ==== The term is sometimes misunderstood as fine toothcomb, especially in the figurative sense. This form of the expression, and the associated concept of a toothcomb, is often considered erroneous, but fine toothcomb is said to be now “accepted in standard English” by at least the Oxford English Dictionary. Sense 2 (“means of making a thorough search”) is generally used in the form “to go through with a fine-tooth comb”. ==== Alternative forms ==== fine-toothed comb ==== Derived terms ==== toothcomb ==== Translations ==== ==== See also ==== fingertip search === Verb === fine-tooth comb (third-person singular simple present fine-tooth combs, present participle fine-tooth combing, simple past and past participle fine-tooth combed) (transitive) (dated) To comb or go through (hair, an animal's fur, etc.) with a comb having fine, closely spaced teeth. (figuratively) To search (something or somewhere) meticulously. Synonyms: comb over, comb through, leave no stone unturned, pore over, scour, turn upside down ==== Translations ==== === References ===