spermicide

noun

sper·​mi·​cide ˈspər-mə-ˌsīd How to pronounce spermicide (audio)
: a preparation or substance (such as nonoxynol-9) used to kill sperm
spermicidal adjective

Examples of spermicide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
The Biden administration’s proposal would cover all over-the-counter contraception products, including condoms, spermicide, and emergency contraception. Emma Specter, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2024 Also, spermicide can get messy, and the diaphragm needs to be cleaned and stored correctly. Wendy Wisner, Health, 27 July 2024 It's often used in tandem with spermicide—a topical contraceptive that kills sperm.1 Diaphragms appeal to many people for their convenience and lack of hormones. Wendy Wisner, Health, 27 July 2024 Barrier methods include a diaphragm, condoms, and spermicides. Sarah Klein, Health, 28 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for spermicide 

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of spermicide was in 1929

Dictionary Entries Near spermicide

Cite this Entry

“Spermicide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spermicide. Accessed 19 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

spermicide

noun
sper·​mi·​cide ˈspər-mə-ˌsid How to pronounce spermicide (audio)
: a preparation or substance (as in a contraceptive) used to kill sperm

Medical Definition

spermicide

noun
sper·​mi·​cide ˈspər-mə-ˌsīd How to pronounce spermicide (audio)
: a preparation or substance (as nonoxynol-9) used to kill sperm

called also spermatocide

More from Merriam-Webster on spermicide

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!