methoprene

[ meth-uh-preen ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a synthetic insect juvenile hormone, C 1 9 H 3 4 O 3 , used as a biological pesticide primarily on mosquito and fly larvae to prevent maturing to the adult state.

Word History and Origins

Origin of methoprene¹

1970–75; probably metho(xy-) + pr(opyl) + -ene

Example Sentences

When the researchers treated the larvae of these species with a growth hormone called methoprene, the larvae developed into supersoldiers.

From Science Magazine

Then the researchers dabbed methoprene on the larvae of species that don't usually make supersoldiers.

From Science Magazine

Terry Backer, a former lobsterman, arranged a meeting of fishermen who asked state lawmakers to urge neighboring New York state to stop using methoprene, a pesticide used to kill mosquitoes that may carry the West Nile virus.

From Washington Post