malathion

[ mal-uh-thahy-on, ‑uhn ]

noun

1. an organic phosphate insecticide, C 10 H 19 O 6 S 2 P, of relatively low toxicity for mammals.

Malathion

/ ˌmæləˈθaɪɒn /

noun

1. a yellow organophosphorus insecticide used as a dust or mist for the control of house flies and garden pests. Formula: C 10 H 19 O 6 PS 2

Word History and Origins

Origin of malathion¹

First recorded in 1953

Word History and Origins

Origin of malathion¹

C20: from ( diethyl ) mal ( eate ) + thio- + -on