diatomaceous earth

American  

noun

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

---

diatomaceous earth British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of diatomaceous earth

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

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.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 20, 2022

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

From Seattle Times • Sep. 29, 2022

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

From Washington Post • Aug. 19, 2022

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

From Salon • May 9, 2022

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.

From "Unusual Chickens for the Exceptional Poultry Farmer" by Kelly Jones