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

Chiggers are soft bodied and are vulnerable to sharp microscopic material in diatomaceous earth. — Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 22 July 2026

Insecticidal dust, like that containing diatomaceous earth or boric acid, can be applied in cracks, crevices, and other hiding spots. — Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 9 July 2026

Another trick is to sprinkle boric acid or diatomaceous earth into gaps and cracks where roaches are getting in. — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 June 2026

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

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for diatomaceous earth

• afterbirth
• berth
• birth
• dearth
• firth
• girth
• mirth
• worth
• childbirth
• rebirth
• stillbirth
• tamworth

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