chlorpyrifos

American  

[klawr-pir-uh-fos, klohr-] / klɔrˈpɪr əˌfɒs, kloʊr- /

noun

1. a broad-spectrum insecticide, C 9 H 11 Cl 3 NO 3 PS, used on lawns and ornamental plants.

---

Etymology

Origin of chlorpyrifos

chlor- ² + pyri(dine) + -fos, for phosphorus

Example Sentences

The studies showed that chlorpyrifos disrupts autophagy, the cellular system responsible for clearing damaged proteins from cells.

From Science Daily • Mar. 16, 2026

While some states have banned or put restrictions on the use of chlorpyrifos on golf courses, it’s still allowed in some places.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 31, 2025

The saga of this pesticide, which has the unwieldy name chlorpyrifos, is a stark reminder of why so many Americans are alarmed about industrial farming and the food supply.

From New York Times • Dec. 4, 2024

Before it was banned, more than 900,000 pounds of chlorpyrifos were used in 2017— more than in any other state.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 30, 2024

The EPA effectively banned another organophosphate pesticide, chlorpyrifos, in 2021, based in part on evidence linking it to ADHD, autism and reduced IQ in children.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2024