insecticide

[ in-sek-tuh-sahyd ]

noun

1. a substance or preparation used for killing insects.
2. the act of killing insects.

insecticide

/ ɪnˈsɛktɪˌsaɪd /

noun

1. a substance used to destroy insect pests

insecticide

/ ĭn-sĕk′tĭ-sīd′ /

1. A pesticide used to kill insects. Chlordane and DDT are insecticides.
2. Compare fungicide

Derived Forms

• inˌsectiˈcidal, adjective

Other Words From

• in·secti·cidal adjective
• nonin·secti·cidal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of insecticide¹

First recorded in 1860–65; insect + -i- + -cide

Example Sentences

Eventually, over time, beetles, moths, flies and other insects develop genetic mutations that render the insecticide chemicals ineffective.

From Science Daily

Individuals relying on shallow groundwater or natural springs for drinking water have a higher risk of contamination from these insecticides compared to those getting their drinking water from deep groundwater wells.

From Science Daily

Crystals are the building blocks that make up many over-the-counter and prescription drugs, insecticides to fight mosquitoes, explosives such as TNT, semiconductors, and light-emitting technologies used in television screens and cell phones.

From Science Daily

People can also decide to treat their clothing, boots and camping gear with permethrin, an insecticide that kills or repels mosquitoes, according to the CDC.

From Los Angeles Times

"You can get insecticide resistance in a population inside of a home very quickly because that population is turning over and growing so fast."

From Salon

Related Words

• defoliant
• fungicide
• pesticide