from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Chigoe \Chig"oe\, Chigre \Chig"re\, n. [Cf. F. chigue, perh. fr.
Catalan chic small, Sp. chico; or of Peruvian origin.]
(Zool.)
A species of flea ({Tunga penetrans}, formerly {Pulex
penetrans}), common in the West Indies and South America,
which often attacks the feet or any exposed part of the human
body, and burrowing beneath the skin produces great
irritation. When the female is allowed to remain and breed,
troublesome sores result, which are sometimes dangerous. See
{Jigger}. [Written also {chegre}, {chegoe}, {chique},
{chigger}, {jigger}.]
[1913 Webster]
Note: The name is sometimes erroneously given to certain
mites or ticks having similar habits.
[1913 Webster]