# insecticide

/ˌɪnˈsɛktəˌsaɪd/ (US) · /ˌɪnsˈɛktɪsˌaɪd/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/insecticide
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

a chemical substance used to kill insects. You usually find it in sprays or powders to protect crops or homes from bugs.

For teachers: a substance used to kill insects, especially one used in agriculture or pest control.

## Examples

- The farmer uses a strong insecticide to protect his crops.
- The gardener applied an organic insecticide to the roses to prevent aphids from damaging the leaves.
- While synthetic insecticides are highly effective at eliminating pests, their widespread use has led to significant environmental concerns regarding the long-term health of local bee populations.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.