biocide

[ bahy-uh-sahyd ]

noun

1. any chemical that destroys life by poisoning, especially a pesticide, herbicide, or fungicide.

biocide

/ ˈbaɪəˌsaɪd /

noun

1. a chemical, such as a pesticide, capable of killing living organisms

biocide

/ bī′ə-sīd′ /

1. A chemical agent, such as a pesticide or herbicide, that is capable of destroying living organisms.

Derived Forms

• ˌbioˈcidal, adjective

Other Words From

• bio·cidal adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of biocide¹

First recorded in 1945–50; bio- + -cide

Example Sentences

In the US, pet food is estimated to be responsible for 25% to 30% of the environmental impact of meat production when it comes to the use of land, water, fossil fuels, phosphate, and biocides, according to a 2017 study.

From Quartz

Unfortunately, the massive use of industrial biocides in vineyards seriously harms the environment and reduces the soils' ability to sequester greenhouse gases.

From Washington Post