What does herbicide mean?
A herbicide is a substance used to destroy or suppress unwanted plants, especially weeds. In modern agriculture, herbicides are commonly synthetic chemicals applied to fields, gardens, roadsides, and other areas where vegetation is unwanted. They may be selective, targeting particular plant types, or broad-spectrum, affecting a wider range of plants. The term is closely associated with farming and horticulture but is also discussed in environmental science because some herbicides can affect non-target organisms, contaminate soil and water, or contribute to the evolution of resistant weeds. Herbicides differ from pesticides generally because pesticides is the broader category that includes substances intended to control insects, fungi, and other pests, while herbicides specifically concern plants. The word combines the older element “herb,” associated with plants, with the killing suffix “-cide.”
nounA substance, especially a chemical compound, used to destroy or inhibit unwanted plants, particularly weeds.
- A chemical or other substance used to destroy or inhibit the growth of unwanted plants, especially weeds.
"The farmer applied a selective herbicide to protect the crops while leaving the grass and wildflowers largely untouched."
"The herbicide was sprayed along the edge of the field to control invasive weeds."
"Researchers are studying how weeds develop resistance to commonly used herbicides."
The plural is used when referring to different herbicide products, formulations, chemicals, or applications.
"Several herbicides are available for controlling dandelions in lawns."
Herbicides made modern large-scale farming possible, but the same compounds can also alter habitats and ecosystems far beyond the fields they were meant to protect.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does herbicide come from?
The English word herbicide was formed in the 20th century from “herb” and the combining form “-cide.” “Herb” derives from Latin herba, meaning a plant or herbaceous plant, while “-cide” comes from Latin caedere, meaning to kill or cut down. The same killing-root appears in related English compounds such as insecticide and fungicide.
Related word forms
How herbicide is actually used
Herbicides are usually discussed in agricultural, horticultural, environmental, or scientific contexts. The term can refer to a specific chemical formulation or, more generally, to a substance used for weed control. In public discussion, it may carry concerns about environmental effects, resistance, and health.
Easily confused with herbicide
A herbicide is used to kill or suppress unwanted plants, whereas a fungicide is used to control fungi.