Fumigant: meaning, definitions and examples

Etymology

• The word derives from the Latin 'fumigare', meaning 'to smoke'.
• It combines 'fumus', which means 'smoke', with the suffix '-ant' indicating an agent that performs an action.

Science

• Fumigants can be gases or vapors, often used in pest control and sanitation.
• Common fumigants include methyl bromide and sulfuryl fluoride, both known for effectively eliminating pests but requiring careful handling due to their toxicity.

Health

• Fumigants can be hazardous; exposure to certain types can cause respiratory issues or other health problems.
• Proper ventilation and safety measures are critical when using these substances to safeguard health.

Agriculture

• In agriculture, fumigants play a significant role in soil treatment, eradicating unwanted organisms before crops are planted.
• They are essential in protecting stored commodities, especially grains, from pests during storage.

Environmental Concerns

• Some traditional fumigants, like methyl bromide, have been phased out in many countries due to their ozone-depleting properties.
• Research continues into finding safer, more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional fumigants.

This word's position of #30,271 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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• 30268 hysteric
• 30269 spaciousness
• 30270 fantasized
• 30271 fumigant
• 30272 naturalisation
• 30273 warehoused
• 30274 mew
• ...