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
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.
The diatomaceous earth has a natural groove that keeps it from becoming slippery, even so. Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 7 Oct. 2025 The Home Depot suggests pesticides like diatomaceous earth for hard-to-reach spots like the back of cabinets or along the exterior of your home. Rachel Wegner, Nashville Tennessean, 17 Sep. 2025 Original price: $49.99 Crafted from highly absorbent diatomaceous earth, this bath mat quickly evaporates water to keep your floor dry. Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 17 Sep. 2025 The rice husk, which is mixed with diatomaceous earth — a porous material consisting of fossilised diatoms — provides thermal insulation, repels pests and resists humidity. Faye Bradley, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2025 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 18 Oct. 2025.

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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