diatomaceous earth

noun

: a light friable siliceous material derived chiefly from diatom remains and used especially as a filter

Examples of diatomaceous earth in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Dorai Home Collapsible Dish Pad $95 Amazon $95 $67 Dorai Home Dorai home's products are made from diatomaceous earth, which is a naturally absorbent material. —Emily Farris, Bon Appétit, 3 Dec. 2024

Usually a good sweep out after nesting season and a light dusting of food-grade diatomaceous earth to take care of pests should be sufficient. —Joan Morris, The Mercury News, 23 Sep. 2024

When ground bees come into contact with diatomaceous earth, the microscopic, sharp particles within the powder abrade their exoskeletons, leading to dehydration and death. —Nafeesah Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Sep. 2024

Try boric acid: Like diatomaceous earth, boric acid can be sprinkled around to kill silverfish instantly. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 7 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1883, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for diatomaceous earth

• afterbirth
• berth
• birth
• dearth
• firth
• girth
• mirth
• worth
• childbirth
• rebirth
• stillbirth
• tamworth

Kids Definition

diatomaceous earth

noun

: a light crumbly material that is made up mostly of the silica-containing skeletons of dead diatoms and is used especially as a filter

Medical Definition

diatomaceous earth

noun

: diatomite