Definition

A chemical substance that can kill or control harmful living organisms, such as pests or bacteria.

Example

Farmers often use biocides to protect their crops from insects and diseases.

Conversation

Have you heard about that new biocide they developed for farms?

Yeah, I read it can help control pests more effectively.

It's crazy how these biocides can impact the ecosystem, though.

True, we need to be careful about using them too much.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Biocide → It is formed from "bio-" (from Greek "bios", meaning life) and "-cide" (from Latin "caedere", meaning to kill). The word "biocide" refers to a substance that kills living organisms.

Memory Tip

Think of 'life' ('bio-') being 'killed' ('-cide') — that's why biocide means a substance that kills living things.

Visually Confused Words