spermicide

noun

sper·​mi·​cide ˈspər-mə-ˌsīd 

: a preparation or substance (such as nonoxynol-9) used to kill sperm

spermicidal

ˌspər-mə-ˈsī-dəl 

adjective

Examples of spermicide in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Biden administration’s proposal would cover all over-the-counter contraception products, including condoms, spermicide, and emergency contraception. —Emma Specter, Vogue, 21 Oct. 2024

Also, spermicide can get messy, and the diaphragm needs to be cleaned and stored correctly. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 27 July 2024

It's often used in tandem with spermicide—a topical contraceptive that kills sperm.1 Diaphragms appeal to many people for their convenience and lack of hormones. —Wendy Wisner, Health, 27 July 2024

Barrier methods include a diaphragm, condoms, and spermicides. —Sarah Klein, Health, 28 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1929, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

spermicide

noun

sper·​mi·​cide ˈspər-mə-ˌsid 

: a preparation or substance (as in a contraceptive) used to kill sperm

Medical Definition

spermicide

noun

sper·​mi·​cide ˈspər-mə-ˌsīd 

: a preparation or substance (as nonoxynol-9) used to kill sperm

called also spermatocide