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.
As an official Bee City, Calgary has banned the spraying of pesticides and herbicides. Sofia Perez, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024 These issues are primarily driven by agriculture — particularly pesticide and herbicide use — and other forms of development. Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 10 Dec. 2024 Habitat loss, pesticides and climate change are contributing to the issue. Rachel Frazin, The Hill, 10 Dec. 2024 These reports will confirm the potency of the CBD and prove that the product is free of harmful contaminants like pesticides, heavy metals, and solvents. Lydia Kariuki, The Mercury News, 3 Dec. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near pesticide

Cite this Entry

“Pesticide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesticide. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

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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