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derris

derris

9.9
A tropical climbing plant whose roots make a natural insect poison used to catch fish
  • noun
  • /ˈdɛrɪs/
  • Specialized
translation icon : derris
  • Some derris species are commonly grown for their use in natural insecticides.

Examples

  • Scientists have studied derris extract for its potential agricultural applications.

  • The villagers prepared a poison from the roots of derris to catch fish in the river.

  • The derris plant is known for its insecticidal properties.

  • Farmers often use derris to control pests in their crops.

  • Farmers use derris as a natural insecticide to protect their crops from pests.

  • The indigenous people relied on derris roots to create potent fish poisons for hunting.

  • Many gardeners prefer using derris for pest control because it is derived from natural sources.

Compounds

derris root
  • Specialized
9.9

The root of a climbing plant used to make a natural insect poison

Surface Forms

derris singular
derrises plural

Etymology

The word derris comes from a local Southeast Asian name for vine plants whose roots were used to make a fish and insect 'poison'. So, think of derris as the 'poison root' plant to remember why its extract is used as a natural insecticide.