pesticide

noun

pes·​ti·​cide ˈpe-stə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
: an agent used to destroy pests
pesticidal adjective

Examples of pesticide 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.
Loss of habitat and use of pesticides have shrunk the mascot’s numbers. Hollace Ava Weiner, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Oct. 2025 Before eating, wash the watermelon thoroughly to remove any pesticides or impurities from the skin. Lauren Manaker Ms, Verywell Health, 2 Oct. 2025 Many schools grow vegetables—without chemical pesticides of course. The Editors, JSTOR Daily, 2 Oct. 2025 Though the ancient species once soared over most of the continent, by the mid-20th century, the population of condors had dramatically declined due to habitat degradation, lead poisoning, shooting and the use of DDT pesticide. John Leos, AZCentral.com, 1 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for pesticide

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of pesticide was circa 1925

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pesticide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesticide. Accessed 4 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

pesticide

noun
pes·​ti·​cide ˈpes-tə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
: a substance used to destroy pests
pesticidal
ˌpes-tə-ˈsīd-ᵊl
adjective

Medical Definition

pesticide

noun
pes·​ti·​cide ˈpes-tə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
: an agent used to destroy pests
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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