Definition

A white crystalline compound made from acetaldehyde, often used to kill snails and slugs.

Example

Farmers use metaldehyde to protect their crops from slugs and snails.

Conversation

Have you heard about metaldehyde and its use in gardens?

Yeah, I read that it's used to get rid of slugs and snails.

Exactly! But I wonder if it's safe for other animals.

That's a good point; we should check how it affects pets.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Metaldehyde is formed from "meta-" (meaning beyond or change) and "aldehyde" (from the Latin "alcohol dehydrogenatum", meaning a compound derived from alcohol). The term refers to a compound that is a derivative of aldehyde, indicating a change in its chemical structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'meta-' meaning beyond or change, and 'aldehyde' as a compound derived from alcohol, which helps you remember that metaldehyde is a changed form of an alcohol-derived compound.

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