Definition

A type of pesticide that is used to kill insects and parasites, known for being less harmful to humans.

Example

Farmers often use dichlorvos to protect their crops from pests.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of dichlorvos?

Yeah, it's that pesticide, right?

Exactly! I read it’s used a lot in veterinary medicine.

That makes sense; I've seen it around in pet care products.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dichlorvos is formed from "di-" (meaning two), "chlor" (from Greek "chloros", meaning green, referring to chlorine), and "vos" (from the Latin "vulnerare", meaning to wound or harm). The word refers to a chemical compound that contains two chlorine atoms and is used as an insecticide, thus implying its harmful effects on pests.

Memory Tip

Think of 'two' ('di-') chlorine atoms ('chlor') that can 'harm' ('vos') pests, which helps you remember that dichlorvos is a chemical used to kill insects.

Visually Confused Words