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
(ˌ)in-ˌsek-tə-ˈsī-dᵊl-ē How to pronounce insecticidal (audio)
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 Insecticidal Soap Applying an insecticidal soap is a less toxic alternative to conventional pesticides. — Anne Readel, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026 The experts say to use a hose to gently wash the pests off your plants, then follow up with insecticidal soap or neem oil. — The Spruce, 21 July 2026 The best treatment for these pests, which include aphids, white flies, and thrips, is typically done with alternating treatment of neem oil and insecticidal soap. — Anthony Reardon, Kansas City Star, 20 June 2026 Inspect your tomato plants regularly and use insecticidal soaps to get rid of pests. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 16 June 2026 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

Rhymes for insecticidal

See All Rhymes for insecticidal

Browse Nearby Words

insecti-
insecticidal
insecticide
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Cite this Entry

“Insecticidal.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/insecticidal. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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