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Showing results for sublethal. Search instead for sublettable.

sublethal

American  
[suhb-lee-thuhl] / sʌbˈli θəl /

adjective

  1. almost lethal or fatal.

    a sublethal dose of poison.


Etymology

Origin of sublethal

First recorded in 1890–95; sub- + lethal


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

These sublethal effects can be compared to the way an over-the-counter antihistamine may relieve allergy symptoms while also causing drowsiness.

From Science Daily ● Aug. 6, 2026

The right whale consortium said sublethal injuries to whales from collisions and fishing gear are also a major concern for the remaining population.

From Seattle Times ● Oct. 23, 2023

But subtler, sublethal effects, like those described above for DDT, could be much farther-reaching.

From Scientific American ● Mar. 22, 2023

Pesticides also harm bees, particularly products that cause sublethal or chronic bee health issues.

From Salon ● Nov. 12, 2022

The consequences of the sublethal poisoning of the woodcock are now seen in a marked decline in the proportion of young birds to adults, first observed in the season after fire ant treatments began.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson

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