insecticide
noun
in·sec·ti·cide
in-ˈsek-tə-ˌsīd 
plural insecticides
: an agent that destroys one or more species of insects
broadly
: an agent that destroys insects as well as other small pests (such as mites or nematodes)
Aphids, mealybugs, and cyclamen mites are all common problems and can be controlled with any low-toxicity insecticide sold specifically for houseplants. —
Horticulture
Horticulture Examples of insecticide in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Further genomic research could help scientists to better understand the cockroaches’ spread and the evolution of their resistance to insecticides, which could, in turn, lead to better pest management.
—Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 May 2024
But unlike traditional approaches reliant on insecticides, Forrest’s NVC technology offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.
—Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for insecticide 
Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 22 May 2024
But unlike traditional approaches reliant on insecticides, Forrest’s NVC technology offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.
—Molly Peck, USA TODAY, 14 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for insecticide
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'insecticide.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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Cite this Entry
“Insecticide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insecticide. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
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insecticide
noun
in·sec·ti·cide
in-ˈsek-tə-ˌsīd
: a chemical used to kill insects
insecticidal
adjective
(ˌ)in-ˌsek-tə-ˈsīd-ᵊl
Medical Definition
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