Definition

Describing a substance that stops seeds from starting to grow by blocking a key enzyme.

Example

Farmers often use preemergent herbicides to control weeds before they sprout.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new preemergent herbicides they released this season?

Yeah, I read that they can really help control weeds before they even start growing.

Exactly! I think it might save a lot of time in the garden.

For sure! It sounds like a game changer for keeping everything neat.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Preemergent is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "emergent" (from Latin "emergere", meaning to rise or come forth). The word refers to something that occurs before something else rises or comes forth, particularly in the context of plants or weeds before they emerge from the soil.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pre-' meaning before and 'emergent' meaning to rise — so preemergent refers to something that happens before something else rises.

Visually Confused Words