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

When insects come into direct contact with diatomaceous earth, DE slices through their exoskeletons, causing insects to desiccate and die in only a few hours. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2024

However, some ongoing research suggests that mixing biochar and diatomaceous earth into infested soils may help control jumping worms. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2024

Spread diatomaceous earth along the outside of the home or in high-concentration areas indoors. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 31 July 2024

Controls include hand-picking, beer traps, diatomaceous earth and slug baits. —Dawn Pettinelli, Hartford Courant, 13 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

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

: diatomite