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 insecticidal soap or horticultural oil for large infestations. Arricca Elin Sansone, Southern Living, 10 Sep. 2025 Suffocating horticultural oil or insecticidal soap are non-toxic solutions to eliminating 1-5 feet and a spread stretching to 10 feet or more, depending on microclimate and soil conditions. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 15 Aug. 2025 For indoor plants, insecticidal soaps and neem oil products can be used. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Aug. 2025 Natural sprays of insecticidal soap or Neem oil could also be applied. Tom MacCubbin, The Orlando Sentinel, 2 Aug. 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 20 Sep. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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