Pests Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pests
[pษsts ]
Definitions
Context #1 | Noun
in agriculture
Pests are destructive insects or other animals that attack crops, food, livestock, etc. causing damage and reducing yields. They are a major concern for farmers worldwide.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- Pesticides are often used to control pests in agriculture.
- The farmers are struggling to protect their crops from pests.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Agriculture
- In farming, pests can damage crops, leading to significant economic losses each year worldwide.
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a modern approach that combines different strategies to manage pest populations effectively.
Health Risks
- Some pests, like mosquitoes, are known to spread diseases like malaria and dengue fever, impacting public health.
- Rodents can carry pathogens that contaminate food and surfaces, which can lead to health issues.
Ecology
- Pests can disrupt local ecosystems by outcompeting native species for resources, demonstrating the interconnectedness of nature.
- Certain pests serve as food for larger animals, highlighting their role in maintaining ecological balance.
Pop Culture
- Pests have been featured in numerous films and literature, often portrayed humorously or as antagonists, like in 'A Bug's Life.'
- In video games, pests often represent challenges that players must overcome, like defeating invasive species in garden simulations.
Origin of 'pests'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pest' originates from the Latin 'pestis,' meaning plague or destruction, indicating its harmful nature.
- In older English, 'pest' sometimes referred to a nuisance or trouble, connecting the word's roots to annoyance.
The word 'pests' originated from the Latin word 'pesta', meaning plague or pestilence. Over time, it evolved to refer to destructive animals or insects. The concept of pests has been a concern for agriculture since ancient times, as they pose a threat to food production and livelihoods.