insecticidal

adjective

in·​sec·​ti·​cid·​al (ˌ)in-ˌsek-tə-ˈsī-dᵊl How to pronounce insecticidal (audio)
1
: destroying or controlling insects
2
: of or relating to an insecticide
insecticidally adverb

Examples of insecticidal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Use Organic Insecticides Bt, insecticidal soap, and neem oil are derived from natural materials and can be used on specific pests. Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 Apr. 2025 For larger infestations, use an insecticidal soap or neem oil. Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 3 Apr. 2025 If your Easter cacti develop sticky leaves, leaf yellowing and spotting, or other signs of pests, treat them every 7 to 10 days with an organic insecticidal soap spray until the pests are gone. Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Mar. 2025 The treatment will vary depending on the invader, such as applying insecticidal soap to remove aphids or dabbing mealybugs with rubbing alcohol. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for insecticidal

Word History

First Known Use

1857, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of insecticidal was in 1857

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Cite this Entry

“Insecticidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insecticidal. Accessed 19 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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