Definition

A chemical that is used to eliminate or control the growth of algae in water.

Example

The pond was treated with an algicide to prevent the growth of harmful algae.

Conversation

Have you ever used an algicide in your fish tank?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they can be really effective.

Yeah, I think it helps keep the algae under control.

I might need to get some if my tank starts getting green.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Algicide → It is formed from "alga" (from Latin *alga*, meaning seaweed or algae) and "-cide" (from Latin *caedere*, meaning to kill). The word "algicide" refers to a substance that kills algae.

Memory Tip

Think of 'alga' as referring to algae, and '-cide' means to kill — so an algicide is something that kills algae.

Visually Confused Words