biocide
noun
bio·cide ˈbī-ə-ˌsīd 
: a substance (such as an algicide or fungicide) that destroys or inhibits the growth or activity of living organisms
Sodium azide is an explosive, broad-spectrum biocide with toxicity comparable to sodium cyanide's.
Science News
Science News
Example Sentences
Recent Examples on the Web For brick pavers that get a greenish or blackish hue from moss and lichen, damp shady environments, or water run-off, the BIA recommends bleach and water (mixed with a one-to-one ratio) or commercially available biocide treatments. Kristina Mcguirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 June 2022 Another target is to cut pollution from biocides, plastic wastes, and excess nutrients by at least 50%. Jessie Yeung, CNN, 14 Jan. 2020 Waterford masks contain a biocide that protects medical workers and other wearers from infectious diseases better than existing masks, which were designed more to safeguard patients than wearers, the company says. Joseph A. Mann Jr, miamiherald, 9 Mar. 2018 A class of biocides known as quaternary ammonium compounds, or quats, is one chemical treatment that temporarily diminishes biofilms and their visible effects. National Geographic, 21 Sep. 2016
Kristina Mcguirk, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 June 2022 Another target is to cut pollution from biocides, plastic wastes, and excess nutrients by at least 50%. Jessie Yeung, CNN, 14 Jan. 2020 Waterford masks contain a biocide that protects medical workers and other wearers from infectious diseases better than existing masks, which were designed more to safeguard patients than wearers, the company says. Joseph A. Mann Jr, miamiherald, 9 Mar. 2018 A class of biocides known as quaternary ammonium compounds, or quats, is one chemical treatment that temporarily diminishes biofilms and their visible effects. National Geographic, 21 Sep. 2016 Word History
First Known Use
1947, in the meaning defined above
Medical Definition
biocide
noun
bio·cide ˈbī-ə-ˌsīd
: a substance (as glutaraldehyde) that is destructive to many different organisms