Definition

A chemical that is used to kill or control rodents, such as rats and mice.

Example

Farmers often use rodenticide to protect their crops from being damaged by rodents.

Conversation

Have you heard about that new rodenticide they just released?

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

I might need to get some since I've seen a few around my place.

Just be careful and follow the instructions; those things can be dangerous.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Rodenticide is formed from "rodent" (from Latin *rodere*, meaning to gnaw) and "-cide" (from Latin *caedere*, meaning to kill). The word refers to a substance used to kill rodents, specifically those that gnaw.

Memory Tip

Think of 'gnawing' ('rodent') and 'killing' ('-cide') to remember that rodenticide is something that kills gnawing animals.

Visually Confused Words