malathion

American  

[mal-uh-thahy-on, ‑uhn] / ˌmæl əˈθaɪ ɒn, ‑ən /

noun

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

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Malathion British  

/ 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

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Etymology

Origin of malathion

First recorded in 1953

Example Sentences

As for malathion, a 2000 federal review found it posed no threat to people when used correctly.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 15, 2024

They began spot-spraying with a pesticide called malathion, which was about to become a household word.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 15, 2024

Some environmental scientists strongly oppose loosening the restrictions on both acephate and malathion, arguing that the new tests are not reliable enough to capture all the hazards a chemical poses to the developing brain.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2024

In its proposals to increase the allowable amount of both acephate and malathion on food, the EPA also had to look past other potentially concerning test results.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2024

The “harmless” insecticides malathion and methoxychlor are less poisonous than their relatives only because a liver enzyme deals with them, altering their molecules in such a way that their capacity for harm is lessened.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson