diatomaceous earth

noun

: a light friable siliceous material derived chiefly from diatom remains and used especially as a filter

Examples of diatomaceous earth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Pool-grade diatomaceous earth, for instance, has been heat-treated and can be harmful to lungs and skin, cautions Frazer, and isn’t pest control friendly. Emily Hayes, Martha Stewart, 24 June 2026 Use insecticides like diatomaceous earth to control chigger populations in your yard. Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 18 June 2026 Dolshun recommends diatomaceous earth, a natural alternative to harsher insecticides that comes as a powdery substance that can be easily sprinkled in problem areas. Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 17 June 2026 Remove ant hills using natural methods like flooding, boiling water, diatomaceous earth, or soapy water. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for diatomaceous earth

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of diatomaceous earth was in 1883

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Cite this Entry

“Diatomaceous earth.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/diatomaceous%20earth. Accessed 30 Jun. 2026.

Kids Definition

diatomaceous earth

noun
: a light crumbly material that is made up mostly of the silica-containing skeletons of dead diatoms and is used especially as a filter

Medical Definition

diatomaceous earth

noun

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