spermicide

[ spur-muh-sahyd ]

noun

1. a sperm-killing agent, especially a commercial birth-control preparation, usually a cream or jelly.

spermicide

/ ˈspɜːmɪˌsaɪd /

noun

1. any drug or other agent that kills spermatozoa

spermicide

/ spûr′mĭ-sīd′ /

1. An agent that kills spermatozoa, especially one that is used as a contraceptive.

Derived Forms

• ˌspermiˈcidal, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of spermicide¹

First recorded in 1925–30; sperm ¹ + -i- + -cide

Example Sentences

Over time, IUDs were tweaked and refined, notably with the introduction of copper, which acts as a spermicide.

From Salon

Furthermore, spermicide can erode the cell membranes of the vaginal wall, according to the World Health Organization, which could make frequent users more prone to contracting a sexually transmitted disease or infection.

From New York Times

"She put the cap into a tin box and gave me a tube of the spermicide and said to come back if there were any difficulties."

From Salon

Also, the use of anabolic steroids for bodybuilding will lower spermicide counts dramatically.

From Fox News

"It's important that you don't use spermicide or lots of lubricants in the 24 hours before the test, because it can interfere with the test itself," says Dr Kaye.

From BBC