acetochlor

noun

ace·​to·​chlor ə-ˈsē-tō-ˌklȯr 

: an herbicide C₁₄H₂₀ClNO₂ that is typically applied before the emergence of crop seedlings aboveground and is used to control grasses and broad-leaved weeds

… acetochlor, a herbicide commonly used by farmers to control weeds in corn.

—Mary Divine & Dennis Lien, St. Paul (Minnesota) Pioneer Press, 26 Sept. 2007

Word History

Etymology

aceto- + -chlor (as in alachlor)

First Known Use

circa 1971, in the meaning defined above

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now