Herbicide: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this word when talking about chemicals specifically designed to kill or inhibit the growth of unwanted plants (weeds). It's commonly used in agriculture, gardening, and landscaping.

• The farmers applied herbicide to the fields to control the weed growth.
• Make sure to use the herbicide according to the instructions to avoid harming other plants.

Similar to 'herbicide,' this word is more commonly used in everyday language and often refers to products used by home gardeners to eliminate weeds in their gardens or yards.

• John bought some weedkiller to get rid of the dandelions in his front yard.
• Always wear gloves when applying weedkiller to avoid skin irritation.

This is a broader term used for chemicals that are designed to kill pests, including insects, weeds, and fungi. Use it when talking about general pest control.

• Many farmers use pesticides to protect their crops from pests.
• Pesticide residues on fruits and vegetables can be harmful if not washed properly.

Use in scientific or agricultural discussions to describe chemicals used to eliminate unwanted vegetation.

• The farmers applied herbicide to control the spread of weeds in their cornfields

Use in everyday language or for commercial products aimed at general consumers looking to control weeds in their gardens or lawns.

• I bought some weed killer at the garden store to get rid of the dandelions in my yard

Use when referring to substances that are toxic to plants and might have a broader application beyond just weeds. Often has a more negative connotation.

• The industrial spill contained a plant poison that devastated the local vegetation