Definition

A substance used to kill lice, especially in the context of treating infestations on humans or animals.

Example

The veterinarian recommended a pulicide to treat the dog's lice problem.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new pulicides that are being developed for pest control?

No, I haven't! What are they exactly?

They're chemicals designed to specifically target pests without harming other wildlife.

That sounds really interesting; I hope they can make a difference in agriculture.

Root Explanation

The word 'pulicides' is derived from 'pulicid' (from Latin 'pulicida', meaning flea-killing) and the suffix '-es' (indicating plural). Thus, 'pulicides' refers to substances or agents that kill fleas.

Memory Tip

Think of 'pulicid' meaning flea-killing, and remember that 'pulicides' are agents that kill fleas.

Visually Confused Words