1
: destroying or controlling insects
2
: of or relating to an insecticide

Examples of insecticidal 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.
Fragrance-free liquid Castile soap with no additives can be mixed with water and turned into an insecticidal soap. Ashley Chalmers, The Spruce, 14 Aug. 2026 Their natural enemies live in the garden too; so, don’t spray with any kind of pesticide, oil or insecticidal soap. Nan Sterman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 Aug. 2026 Use Insecticidal Soap Applying an insecticidal soap is a less toxic alternative to conventional pesticides. Anne Readel, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026 The best treatment for these pests, which include aphids, white flies, and thrips, is typically done with alternating treatment of neem oil and insecticidal soap. Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for insecticidal

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of insecticidal was in 1857

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Insecticidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insecticidal. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster