rotenone

[ roht-n-ohn ]

noun

, Chemistry, Pharmacology.

1. a white, crystalline, water-insoluble, poisonous heterocyclic compound, C 2 3 H 2 2 O 6 , obtained from derris root: used chiefly as the active ingredient of certain insecticides and in medicine in the treatment of chiggers and scabies.

rotenone

/ ˈrəʊtɪˌnəʊn /

noun

1. a white odourless crystalline substance extracted from the roots of derris: a powerful insecticide. Formula: C 23 H 22 O 6 ; relative density: 1.27; melting pt: 163°C

Word History and Origins

Origin of rotenone¹

1920–25; roten- (said to be < Japanese ) + -one

Word History and Origins

Origin of rotenone¹

C20: from Japanese rōten derris + -one

Example Sentences

The rotenone was mixed with water and applied by hand, or into the backwash of an outboard motor.

From Project Gutenberg

Softshells have pharyngeal respiration and probably are incapacitated by rotenone.

From Project Gutenberg

Rotenone was used in a few small pools in efforts to capture complete populations.

From Project Gutenberg

Rotenone acts more slowly than cyanide, allowing more of the distressed fish to rise to the surface.

From Project Gutenberg

Tables 12-16 list all fish obtained at the upper Neosho station by means of the shocker, seines, and rotenone.

From Project Gutenberg