Definition

A substance used to kill the larval stage of insects, especially pests that can harm crops or spread disease.

Example

Farmers often use larvicides to protect their crops from harmful insect larvae.

Conversation

Have you heard about that new larvicide they started selling?

No, I haven't! What makes it different?

I think it’s supposed to be more effective against mosquitoes.

That sounds great! I could definitely use something like that in my garden.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Larvicide → It is formed from "larva" (from Latin *larva*, meaning ghost or mask, but in biological terms refers to the immature form of an insect) and "-cide" (from Latin *caedere*, meaning to kill). The word "larvicide" refers to a substance that kills larvae, particularly those of insects.

Memory Tip

Think of a substance that 'kills' ('-cide') the 'larvae' ('larva') of insects — that's what larvicide means.

Visually Confused Words