Mothballs: meaning, definitions and examples
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mothballs
[ ˈmɔːθbɔːlz ]
storage, pest control
Mothballs are small balls made of a volatile chemical, typically naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, used to repel moths and other insects from clothing and fabrics. They emit a strong odor and are commonly placed in wardrobes, closets, or storage bins to protect textiles from damage.
Synonyms
chemical repellent, insecticide
Examples of usage
- I stored my winter clothes with mothballs to keep moths away.
- The grandmother always used mothballs in her closet.
- After moving the boxes, I could smell the mothballs lingering in the air.
Word origin
The word 'mothball' originates from the combination of 'moth,' which refers to the small flying insect known for eating fabric and clothing, and 'ball,' a shape that describes the physical form of the product. The use of mothballs dates back to the late 19th century, with the first known references appearing around the 1830s. The primary ingredient in many mothballs, naphthalene, was discovered as a byproduct of coal tar, which became commercially viable in the 19th-century industrial era. As people started to rely more on manufactured products, mothballs became a popular item in households for preserving woolen garments and linens. Over the years, the use of mothballs has evolved, though they have raised concerns due to toxic properties, leading to manufacturers developing alternatives that are less harmful.