imidacloprid

noun

im·​id·​a·​clo·​prid i-ˌmi-də-ˈklō-ˌprid 

ˌi-mi-də-ˈklō-ˌprid

: a common neonicotinoid systemic insecticide C₉H₁₀ClN₅O₂ used especially to control agricultural pests (such as aphids and mites)

The systemic insecticide imidacloprid controls the insects from within the plant. This product is applied to the soil and is taken up by the roots.

—Tom MacCubbin

The most commonly used neonicotinoid, imidacloprid, is considered "highly toxic" to bees, and therefore is not supposed to be applied while they are around.

—Elizabeth Kolbert

Word History

First Known Use

1990, in the meaning defined above