pesticide

noun

pes·​ti·​cide ˈpe-stə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
: an agent used to destroy pests
pesticidal adjective

Examples of pesticide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Has Gotten More Eco-Friendly Turf eliminates the need for fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides, allowing fewer harmful chemicals in the environment. Colleen Sullivan, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Apr. 2025 This eliminates or drastically reduces the cost of fertilizers and pesticides and the need for water, which is often pumped by electric or diesel generators, thereby saving water use, energy costs, and emissions. Brooke Roberts-Islam, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 Like other crops, roses can be treated with chemicals and pesticides. Merve Ceylan, Health, 7 Apr. 2025 Several theories have been put forth including pesticides, a parasitic mite and an unknown phenomenon called colony collapse disorder. Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pesticide

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pesticide was circa 1925

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pesticide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesticide. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

pesticide

noun
pes·​ti·​cide ˈpes-tə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
: a substance used to destroy pests
pesticidal
ˌpes-tə-ˈsīd-ᵊl
adjective

Medical Definition

pesticide

noun
pes·​ti·​cide ˈpes-tə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
: an agent used to destroy pests
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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