chigger Definition

1. The bright red larval stage of a mite, often found in damp fields in autumn, which is a parasite of vertebrates and feeds by sucking the blood of small mammals and humans, causing a rash and severe itching. Also called harvestmite.
2. A tropical flea, the pregnant female of which buries herself under the skin of the host, especially under the toenails in humans, causing great discomfort. Also called sand flea.