Herbicidal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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herbicidal
[ˌhɜːr.bɪˈsaɪ.dəl ]
Definition
chemical action
Herbicidal refers to the properties of a substance that can kill or control unwanted plants, specifically weeds. These agents are often used in agriculture, gardening, and landscaping to maintain the health of desired plants by eliminating competition from other plant species. Herbicides can be selective, targeting specific types of plants, or non-selective, affecting all vegetation. The effectiveness of herbicides can depend on various factors, including the type of herbicide used, application method, and environmental conditions.
Synonyms
herbicide, plant killer, weed-killing.
Examples of usage
- The farmer applied a herbicidal spray to control the weed growth.
- Many garden enthusiasts prefer using herbicidal products that are biodegradable.
- Herbicidal treatments can enhance crop yields by minimizing competition.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- Herbicidal agents are essential in modern agriculture, assisting farmers in protecting their crops from competitive weeds.
- These substances can be selective, targeting only specific plant types while sparing others, which is crucial for maintaining crop health.
Environmental Impact
- The use of herbicides can lead to increased crop yields but may also impact soil health and biodiversity.
- Certain herbicides can persist in the environment and may affect non-target plant species, leading to shifts in ecosystems.
Health and Safety
- Exposure to certain herbicidal chemicals can pose health risks to humans and animals, necessitating proper safety measures.
- Regulatory bodies monitor herbicide usage to minimize potential harmful effects on human health and the environment.
Cultural Effects
- The advent of herbicides has changed agricultural practices, allowing large-scale farming operations to thrive.
- In literature and media, herbicides often symbolize modernity's battle against nature, highlighting the tension between agriculture and environmentalism.
Origin of 'herbicidal'
Main points about word origin
- The word is derived from 'herb', meaning plant, and 'cidal', which comes from Latin, meaning to kill.
- The combination of these roots reflects the function of substances that target unwanted greenery.
The term 'herbicidal' has its roots in the combination of two Latin words: 'herba', meaning grass or herb, and 'caedere', meaning to cut or kill. The adjective form emerged as the field of agriculture and plant science expanded, particularly in the 20th century when chemical herbicides became integral to farming practices. The development of synthetic herbicides gained momentum during and after World War II, enabling more effective management of crop and weed competition. As agricultural demands grew, so did the innovation in herbicidal products, leading to the modern formulations we see today, which are designed to target specific types of vegetation while minimizing environmental impact.