diatomaceous earth

noun

1. a fine siliceous earth composed chiefly of the cell walls of diatoms: used in filtration, as an abrasive, etc.

diatomaceous earth

noun

1. Also called: kieselguhr. an unconsolidated form of diatomite

Word History and Origins

Origin of diatomaceous earth¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

We made up a song about diatomaceous earth while we were driving in to the post office today, just because we thought it sounded funny.

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Mixed with diatomaceous earth, a fine powder of algae fossils often used by gardeners, the coarse gray stuff makes a decent substitute for the density and texture of Mars’ dirt.

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It suggests diatomaceous earth and commercial rust remover, blended to the consistency of peanut butter.

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This four-mile formation, composed of clay and diatomaceous earth, has been a conservation priority of the tribe, the Chesapeake Conservancy, the U.S.

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Some people also recommend sprinkling a layer of diatomaceous earth on top of soil to kill them.

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