Synonyms for

Pesticides

Verb / ˈpestʌˌsaɪdz / Another word for pesticides — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Pesticides are chemicals that are used to kill insects, weeds, and other pests that can harm crops or animals.

Synonyms & similar words

pesticide insecticide herbicide fungicide rodenticide repellent exterminator fumigant spray toxicant chemical poison

Synonyms by register

Formal

biocides crop protection chemicals plant protection products

Informal

bug spray weed killer insect killer

Antonyms

fertilizers manure compost nutrients soil conditioners organic matter

Common collocations

  • use pesticides
  • apply pesticides
  • pesticide residue
  • pesticide resistance
  • organic pesticides
  • harmful pesticides
  • pesticide control

Word family

noun pesticide
verb pesticide

Usage note

Pesticides are chemicals used to kill pests. While 'pesticide' is a general term, specific types include insecticides (for insects), herbicides (for weeds), and fungicides (for fungi).

Example sentences

  1. The pesticide killed all the bugs on the plants.
  2. The farmer sprayed the crops with pesticides to keep them healthy.
  3. The pest control company used pesticides to get rid of the ants in the house.
  4. Some people are concerned about the effects of pesticides on the environment.
  5. The use of pesticides has increased over the years as more crops are grown.

Quotes

  • Pesticides are a two-edged sword. They are vital to food security, but can also be deadly poisons.
  • The way that we're going to protect the environment is by protecting the health of our children.
  • The use of pesticides is not a necessary evil. It is a mistake, and it's time we stopped it.

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