neem

noun

ˈnēm How to pronounce neem (audio)
: a large tropical Asian tree (Azadirachta indica) of the mahogany family having a bitter bark used as a tonic and leaves and seeds that have insecticidal and antiseptic properties and yield a medicinal aromatic oil

Examples of neem 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.
In the home, too much or too little water, aphids, mealybugs, (spray with water & dish soap mixture) and scale (use neem oil) are the most common problems. — Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 10 Aug. 2026 Horticultural and neem oil work by suffocating the insects and disrupting their feeding cycle. — Leanne Potts, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Aug. 2026 To effectively mitigate these issues, ensure proper pruning to increase airflow, inspect your trees regularly, and apply organic seasonal sprays, such as neem oil. — Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 4 Aug. 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 See All Example Sentences for neem

Word History

Etymology

Hindi & Urdu nīm, from Sanskrit nimba

First Known Use

1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of neem was in 1813

Browse Nearby Words

neeld
neem
neem-oil
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Neem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/neem. Accessed 15 Aug. 2026.

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