pica Definition
- 1a unit of type size and line length equal to 12 points or 1/6 inch (0.42 cm)
- 2an abnormal craving or appetite for nonfood substances, such as dirt, paint, or clay, that lasts for at least a month
Using pica: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "pica" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The book was printed in 10-point pica.
Example
The patient was diagnosed with pica after eating large amounts of chalk.
Example
Pica is often associated with iron deficiency anemia.
pica Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with pica
the practice of eating earthy or soil-like substances
Example
Geophagia is a form of pica that is common in some cultures.
the consumption of starch or starchy foods
Example
Amylophagia is a type of pica that can be caused by certain medical conditions.
pagophagia
the compulsive consumption of ice
Example
Pagophagia is a type of pica that is often associated with iron deficiency anemia.
Origins of pica
from French 'pica' or Italian 'pica', meaning 'magpie', referring to the bird's attraction to shiny objects
Summary: pica in Brief
The term 'pica' [ˈpaɪkə] refers to two distinct meanings. The first is a unit of type size and line length. The second is an abnormal craving or appetite for nonfood substances, such as dirt or paint, that lasts for at least a month. Pica is often associated with iron deficiency anemia and can take various forms, such as geophagia, amylophagia, and pagophagia.
