powdery mildew

noun

1
: an ascomycetous fungus (family Erysiphaceae) producing abundant powdery conidia on the host
2
: a plant disease caused by a powdery mildew

Examples of powdery mildew in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Prevent powdery mildew by improving light and airflow, and watering the soil—not leaves. Rachel Gillett, Martha Stewart, 10 Feb. 2026 Providing ample shade and maintaining healthy soil can help prevent issues, including occasional damage from slugs and snails, root rot, and powdery mildew. Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Feb. 2026 Other diseases that commonly affect hollies include leaf spots, root rots, and powdery mildew. Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 5 Feb. 2026 Growing plants vertically also increases air circulation and sun exposure, which helps plants grow better and can reduce the risk of powdery mildew and pests. Lauren Landers, The Spruce, 4 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for powdery mildew

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of powdery mildew was in 1889

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Cite this Entry

“Powdery mildew.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/powdery%20mildew. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

powdery mildew

noun
: a fungus that is a parasite and produces a large number of powdery spores on the host
also : a plant disease caused by such a fungus

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