DDT

noun

ˌdē-(ˌ)dē-ˈtē

: a colorless odorless water-insoluble insecticide C₁₄H₉Cl₅ that is an aromatic organochlorine banned in the U.S. that tends to accumulate and persist in ecosystems and has toxic effects on many vertebrates

Examples of DDT in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

In the book, Carson detailed the effects of DDT on organisms and ecosystems. — Encyclopedia Britannica, 3 Sep. 2026 Takeshita hit Fletcher with a DDT from the top rope followed by a Power Drive Knee for a two count. — Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2026 In the Chesapeake Bay, osprey chicks are dying in their nests at rates not seen since the DDT era. — Mark Robichaux, Washington Post, 19 Aug. 2026 Bedbug populations in developed countries were decimated after World War II due to the widespread use of the pesticide DDT. — ABC News, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for DDT

Word History

Etymology

dichlor- + diphenyl + trichlor- (from tri- + chlor-)

First Known Use

1943, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler

The first known use of DDT was in 1943

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DDSc

DDT

D duct

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Cite this Entry

Style

“DDT.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/DDT. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

DDT

noun

ˌdēd-(ˌ)ē-ˈtē

: a colorless formerly used insecticide that is poisonous to many animals with backbones

Medical Definition

DDT

noun

ˌdē-(ˌ)dē-ˈtē

: a colorless odorless water-insoluble crystalline insecticide C₁₄H₉Cl₅ that tends to accumulate in ecosystems and has toxic effects on many vertebrates

called also chlorophenothane, dicophane

DDT

noun

Examples of DDT in a Sentence

Word History

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

Kids Definition

Medical Definition

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