pest

noun

\ ˈpest

Definition of pest

1 : an epidemic disease associated with high mortality specifically : plague

2 : something resembling a pest in destructiveness especially : a plant or animal detrimental to humans or human concerns (such as agriculture or livestock production)

3 : one that pesters or annoys : nuisance

Other Words from pest Synonyms Example Sentences Learn More about pest

Keep scrolling for more

Examples of pest in a Sentence

These insects are pests for farmers. mice and other household pests You're being a real pest. Would you leave us alone, please?

Recent Examples on the Web

Researchers have found that these creatures, which have long been a prevalent urban pest, are becoming increasingly resistant to almost every kind of chemical insecticide. — Kelly Mayes, Science | AAAS, "Cockroaches may soon be unstoppable—thanks to fast-evolving insecticide resistance," 28 June 2019 Summer months are best, and though midges are a pest, they can be tamed with bug spray and a light breeze. — Danielle Bernabe, National Geographic, "Visit a wild and beautiful Scottish island owned by its residents," 26 Apr. 2019 This is damage from a common insect pest of gladioli called gladiolus thrips. — Dan Gill, NOLA.com, "Gladiolus thrips: How to prevent and spot these pests on your gladioli," 26 May 2018 Experts say removal of the colonies is a task that should be reserved for licensed commercial pest control operators. — USA TODAY, "Summer snow, yellow jacket super nests, laundered cat: News from around our 50 states," 26 June 2019 Jackson said the mold problems and some of the other issues have abated, but that the pest control efforts have had little follow-through, resulting in a resurgence of rats. — oregonlive.com, "Tenant organizer sues, says property manager threatened eviction for union activities," 25 June 2019 Tilley’s pest control company had a contract with the system worth $160,00 last year. — Rachel Chason, Washington Post, "Maryland Democratic Party asks elections board to investigate donations to Hogan," 24 June 2019 The company will begin by offering services like deep cleaning, maid, pest control, handymen, and air conditioner servicing and repair in the city. — Sangeeta Tanwar, Quartz India, "The UAE can easily become UrbanClap’s second home," 24 June 2019 Following a reinspection on Jan. 25, the facility was allowed to reopen to the public, thanks to a new pest control service and improved refrigeration units, among other changes. — Justin Phillips, SFChronicle.com, "After 12 years in San Francisco, Mission Beach Cafe closed for health code violations," 10 June 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'pest.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.