permethrin

noun

per·​meth·​rin (ˌ)pər-ˈme-thrən How to pronounce permethrin (audio)
: a synthetic pyrethroid C21H20Cl2O3 used especially as an insecticide

Examples of permethrin 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.
This includes knowing where to expect ticks, such as in wooded areas; treating clothes and gear with products containing the insecticide permethrin; and walking outside in the center of a trail as opposed to a brushy area. Youri Benadjaoud, ABC News, 14 Nov. 2025 Some clothing may be pretreated with permethrin and deter mosquitoes for up to 20 washes. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 5 Nov. 2025 Every four weeks, the researchers re-soaked the wraps in case the permethrin wore off. Jonathan Lambert, NPR, 7 Oct. 2025 Look for clothing and gear treated with permethrin, an insecticide. Kristen Jordan Shamus, Freep.com, 19 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for permethrin

Word History

Etymology

per- + methyl + pyrethrin

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of permethrin was in 1975

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Cite this Entry

“Permethrin.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/permethrin. Accessed 18 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

permethrin

noun
per·​meth·​rin pər-ˈmeth-rən How to pronounce permethrin (audio)
: a synthetic pyrethroid pesticide C21H20Cl2O3 used especially against insects, ticks, and mites

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