Definition

A substance that kills or harms tiny living organisms, such as bacteria and viruses.

Example

The new microbicide is effective in preventing infections by destroying harmful microbes.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new microbicide that's been released in stores?

Yeah, I read that it's supposed to be really effective against bacteria.

I'm curious to try it out, especially for keeping my kitchen clean.

That sounds smart! It's always good to have something that can fight off germs.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Microbicide → It is formed from "micro-" (from Greek "mikros", meaning small) and "cide" (from Latin "caedere", meaning to kill). The word "microbicide" refers to a substance that kills small organisms, particularly microbes.

Memory Tip

Think of 'small' ('micro-') and 'to kill' ('cide') — a microbicide is something that kills small organisms.

Visually Confused Words