pesticide

noun

pes·​ti·​cide ˈpe-stə-ˌsīd How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
Synonyms of pesticidenext
: an agent used to destroy pests
pesticidal
ˌpe-stə-ˈsī-dᵊl How to pronounce pesticide (audio)
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.
Control methods range from hand-picking pests and using baits to applying pesticides and pruning plants. — Alora Bopray, USA Today, 7 July 2026 Earth-friendly gardeners strive to manage our gardens without pesticides. — Rita Perwich, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 July 2026 According to our experts, baking soda creates a mildly alkaline solution that helps loosen surface dirt and remove some pesticide residues from vegetables. — Olivia McIntosh, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026 Many invertebrates are in decline globally due to urbanization, habitat destruction, increases in both light and pesticide pollution, and climate change. — Christopher A. Lepczyk, The Conversation, 8 July 2026 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

Phrases Containing pesticide

Rhymes for pesticide

See All Rhymes for pesticide

Browse Nearby Words

pesthouse
pesticide
pestiferous
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pesticide.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pesticide. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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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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