Mosquito repellent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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mosquito repellent
[mษหskiหtษส rษชหpษlษnt ]
Definition
protecting against insects
A substance applied to the skin, clothing, or other surfaces that repels mosquitoes and other insects, often containing DEET or picaridin.
Synonyms
bug spray, insect repellent.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| mosquito repellent |
This is specifically used to keep mosquitoes away. Use it when you are in an area with a lot of mosquitoes, such as near water or in tropical regions.
|
| insect repellent |
This is a broader term that can refer to any product designed to repel a variety of insects, including mosquitoes and other pests. Useful in environments where many different kinds of insects are present.
|
| bug spray |
This term is more general and can refer to a spray that keeps away various types of bugs, not just mosquitoes. It is useful in camping or outdoor activities where you might encounter different insects.
|
Examples of usage
- Make sure to apply mosquito repellent before going camping.
- She always carries mosquito repellent in her backpack.
- The mosquito repellent helped prevent bug bites during the hike.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Health
- Using mosquito repellent can prevent diseases like malaria and dengue fever, which are spread by bites.
- DEET, a common ingredient in many repellents, was first developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for jungle warfare.
Cultural Practices
- In many tropical countries, natural mosquito repellents include oils from citronella and lemongrass, highlighting traditional remedies.
- Some cultures believe in using herbal oils, like eucalyptus or lavender, which are thought to restrict mosquito attraction.
Science
- Repellents work by disrupting the mosquito's sense of smell, making it harder for them to find you.
- Certain compounds in repellents mimic natural scents that are unattractive to mosquitoes.
Environmental Impact
- Some repellents can have negative effects on bees and other beneficial insects, leading to discussions about eco-friendly alternatives.
- Overuse of certain chemical repellents has raised concerns among environmentalists about pollution and health risks.
Origin of 'mosquito repellent'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'mosquito' comes from Spanish, meaning 'little fly'.
- The word 'repellent' comes from the Latin 'repellere', which means 'to drive back'.
The use of mosquito repellents dates back to ancient times when people used various natural substances like plants, smoke, and oils to ward off mosquitoes. In the 20th century, chemical repellents like DEET were developed for more effective protection against mosquitoes. Today, mosquito repellents are an essential tool for preventing mosquito-borne diseases like malaria, dengue fever, and Zika virus.